bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transactive memory systems and Web 2.0 in knowledge sharing: A conceptual model based on activity theory and critical realism
Authors: Simeonova Boyka
Published: May 2017

The aim of this paper is to advance understanding of interactive knowledge sharing (KS) processes through exploring the role of transactive memory systems (TMSs) and Web 2.0. In the context of the information systems literature, there is little focus on their particular role in KS. To address this gap, this paper develops a conceptual model based on activity theory and critical realism outlining the role of TMS and Web 2.0 as mediating tools. This paper further reveals that their use as tools depends on deeper underlying structures/factors embedded within the community, namely, informal networks and trust among people. The new conceptual model and theoretical propositions are then illustrated by a qualitative study undertaken in Bulgarian organisations. This illustrative case provides support for the model, where TMS and Web 2.0 are found to facilitate KS. It further demonstrates that informal networks and trust among people support the use and the positive effects of these tools. The contribution of this paper is in the new analytical approach and conceptual model developed, which advances our understanding of interactive KS by explaining the linkages between the various factors involved.
Differences in genetic structure assessed using Y‐chromosome and mitochondrial DNA markers do not shape the contributions to diversity in African sires
Authors: Álvarez I. , Pérez‐Pardal L. , Traoré A. , Koudandé D.O. , Fernández I. , Soudré A. , Diarra S. , Sanou M. , Boussini H. , Goyache F.
Published: May 2017

Up to 173 African sires belonging to 11 different subpopulations representative of four cattle groups were analysed for six Y‐specific microsatellite loci and a mitochondrial DNA fragment. Differences in Y‐chromosome and mtDNA haplotype structuring were assessed. In addition, the effect of such structuring on contributions to total genetic diversity was assessed. Thirty‐five Y‐chromosome and 71 mtDNA haplotypes were identified. Most Y‐chromosomes analysed (73.4%) were of zebu origin (11 haplotypes). Twenty‐two Y‐haplotypes (44 samples) belonged to the African taurine subfamily Y2a. All mtDNA haplotypes belonged to the “African” taurine T1 haplogroup with 16 samples and nine haplotypes belonging to a recently identified subhaplogroup (T1e). Median‐joining networks showed that Y‐chromosome phylogenies were highly reticulated with clear separation between zebu and taurine clusters. Mitochondrial haplotypes showed a clear star‐like shape with small number of mutations separating haplotypes. Mitochondrial‐based FST‐statistics computed between cattle groups tended to be statistically non‐significant (p > .05). Most FST values computed among groups and subpopulations using Y‐chromosome markers were statistically significant. AMOVA confirmed that divergence between cattle groups was only significant for Y‐chromosome markers (ΦCT = 0.209). At the mitochondrial level, African sires resembled an undifferentiated population with individuals explaining 94.3% of the total variance. Whatever the markers considered, the highest contributions to total Nei's gene diversity and allelic richness were found in West African cattle. Genetic structuring had no effect on patterns of contributions to diversity.
Development and validation of an item response theory‐based Social Responsiveness Scale short form
Authors: Sturm Alexandra , Kuhfeld Megan , Kasari Connie , McCracken James T.
Published: May 2017

Background

Research and practice in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) rely on quantitative measures, such as the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), for characterization and diagnosis. Like many ASD diagnostic measures, SRS scores are influenced by factors unrelated to ASD core features. This study further interrogates the psychometric properties of the SRS using item response theory (IRT), and demonstrates a strategy to create a psychometrically sound short form by applying IRT results.

Methods

Social Responsiveness Scale analyses were conducted on a large sample (N = 21,426) of youth from four ASD databases. Items were subjected to item factor analyses and evaluation of item bias by gender, age, expressive language level, behavior problems, and nonverbal IQ.

Results

Item selection based on item psychometric properties, DIF analyses, and substantive validity produced a reduced item SRS short form that was unidimensional in structure, highly reliable (α = .96), and free of gender, age, expressive language, behavior problems, and nonverbal IQ influence. The short form also showed strong relationships with established measures of autism symptom severity (ADOS, ADI‐R, Vineland). Degree of association between all measures varied as a function of expressive language.

Conclusions

Results identified specific SRS items that are more vulnerable to non‐ASD‐related traits. The resultant 16‐item SRS short form may possess superior psychometric properties compared to the original scale and emerge as a more precise measure of ASD core symptom severity, facilitating research and practice. Future research using IRT is needed to further refine existing measures of autism symptomatology.
Decline in prevalence and risk of helicobacter pylori in kidney transplant recipients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cheungpasitporn Wisit , Thongprayoon Charat , Wijarnpreecha Karn , Mitema Donald G. , Mao Michael A. , Nissaisorakarn Pitchaphon , Podboy Alexander , Kittanamongkolchai Wonngarm , Sakhuja Ankit , Erickson Stephen B.
Published: May 2017

Objective

The study's aims were (1) to investigate the prevalence and (2) to assess the risk of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in kidney transplant recipients.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed from inception until September 2016. Studies that reported prevalence, relative risks, odd ratios, or hazard ratios of H. pylori among kidney transplant recipients were included. Pooled risk ratios and 95% CI were calculated using a random‐effect model.

Results

Eleven observational studies with 2545 kidney transplant recipients were enrolled. Between year 1990 and 2000, the estimated prevalence of H. pylori among people with kidney transplant was 50% (95% CI: 31% to 68%), with a prevalence of 46% (95% CI: 23% to 70%) in high‐income countries and 55% (95% CI: 22% to 86%) in middle‐income countries, respectively. From year 2000 to 2016, the estimated prevalence of H. pylori among people with kidney transplant was 35% (95% CI: 26% to 45%), with a prevalence of 28% (95% CI: 19% to 37%) in high‐income countries and 45% (95% CI: 38% to 51%) in middle‐income countries. Data regarding prevalence of H. pylori infection in low‐income countries were limited. The pooled RR of H. pylori in kidney transplant recipients was 0.57 (95% CI: 0.33 to 1.00) when compared to people with non‐transplant.

Conclusions

There has been a decline in prevalence of H. pylori in kidney transplant recipients with the overall estimated prevalence of H. pylori in kidney transplant recipients of 35%, particularly in both high‐income and middle‐income countries. Also, our meta‐analysis demonstrates a potential decreased risk of H. pylori infection in kidney transplant recipients compared with non‐transplant populations.
Specialty oilseed crops provide an abundant source of pollen for pollinators and beneficial insects
Authors: Thom M. D. , Eberle C. A. , Forcella F. , Gesch R. , Weyers S.
Published: May 2017

The continuing pollinator crisis is due, in part, to the lack of year‐round floral resources. In intensive farming regions, such as the Upper Midwest (UMW) of the USA, natural and pastoral vegetation largely has been replaced by annual crops such as maize (Zea mays L.), soyabean (Glycine max L.) and wheat (Triticum spp.). Neither the energy (nectar) nor protein (pollen) needs of pollinating and other beneficial insects are being met sufficiently by the new, high‐intensity, agricultural landscape. Several potentially useful oilseed crops can be grown in the UMW, and many of these oilseeds are highly attractive to beneficial insects. Prior research showed that some of these oilseeds produced abundant nectar, but their corresponding values for pollen production are unknown. Accordingly, the aim of our research was to document pollen (and protein) production per unit area of twelve oilseed crops grown in Minnesota and associate these values with levels of beneficial insect visitation during anthesis. Our results show that oilseed crops such as camelina (Camelina sativa L.), flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) and pennycress (Thlaspi arvense L.) produce relatively little pollen (≤40 kg/ha); borage (Borago officinalis L.), calendula (Calendula officinalis L.), canola (Brassica napus L.), crambe (Crambe abyssianica Hochst) and cuphea (Cuphea viscosissima Jacq. × Cuphea lanceolata W. T. Aiton) produce bountiful pollen resources (50–150 kg/ha); and oilseed echium (Echium plantagineum L.) generates massive amounts of pollen (>400 kg/ha), about 50% of which is protein. Our study is unique in presenting a season‐long perspective of pollen production in alternative oilseed crops, a resource valuable to pollen‐feeding insects such as managed and wild bees. Diversification of UMW landscapes that includes alternative oilseed crops such as oilseed echium and cuphea can potentially provide a ready source of pollen and protein to help combat pollinator decline.
Companions on a Serendipitous Journey
Authors: Lacey Nicola
Published: May 2017

This article is a contribution to the occasional series dealing with major books that have influenced the authors. Previous contributors include Stewart Macaulay, John Griffith, William Twining, Carol Harlow, Geoffrey Bindman, Harry Arthurs, André‐Jean Arnaud, Alan Hunt, Michael Adler, Lawrence O. Gostin, John P. Heinz, Roger Brownsword, and Roger Cotterrell.
Leptomeningeal Enhancement at 7T in Multiple Sclerosis: Frequency, Morphology, and Relationship to Cortical Volume
Authors: Harrison Daniel M. , Wang Kevin Y. , Fiol Julie , Naunton Kerry , Royal Walter , Hua Jun , Izbudak Izlem
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Perform an investigation of the frequency and distribution of leptomeningeal enhancement on postgadolinium magnetization‐prepared FLAIR (MPFLAIR) in multiple sclerosis (MS) on 7 Tesla (7T) MRI and to relate this finding to measures of brain structure and lesion volumes.

METHODS

Twenty‐nine participants with MS underwent 7T MRI of the brain. Three healthy volunteers (HVs) were scanned for comparison. Areas of postcontrast leptomeningeal enhancement were identified. Images were segmented for brain structure and lesion volumes. The relationship between leptomeningeal enhancement and clinical and volumetric data was explored.

RESULTS

Two patterns of enhancement were found: “nodular” (discrete, spherical nodules at the pial surface or subarachnoid space) and “spread/fill” (appearance of contrast spread through the local subarachnoid space). Twenty‐six of 29 (90%) MS participants had at least one focus of leptomeningeal enhancement. Nodular foci were present in 15 of 29 (51%) MS participants. Spread/fill foci were present in 22 of 29 (76%) MS participants. Two HVs had examples of nodular foci, but none had spread/fill enhancement. MS participants with spread/fill foci were older (48.9 years [SD 8.3]) than those without (33.3 years [SD 11.5], P = .005). MS participants with spread/fill foci had reduced cortical gray matter volume compared to those without (P = .020).

CONCLUSIONS

Leptomeningeal enhancement on postcontrast 7T MPFLAIR is more prevalent than prior reports at 3T—occurring at frequencies closer to histopathologic data. Spread/fill foci are associated with reduced cortical gray matter volumes and may represent blood‐meningeal barrier breakdown near sites of meningeal inflammation, whereas nodular foci may be a normal variant.
Response of School Districts to the New York State Concussion Awareness and Management Act: Review of Policies and Procedures
Authors: Kajankova Maria , Oswald Jennifer M. , Terranova Lauren M. , Kaplen Michael V. , Ambrose Anne F. , Spielman Lisa A. , Gordon Wayne A.
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

By 2014, all states implemented concussion laws that schools must translate into daily practice; yet, limited knowledge exists regarding implementation of these laws. We examined the extent to which concussion management policies and procedure (P&P) documents of New York State school districts comply with the State's Concussion Awareness and Management Act (the Act). We also aimed to identify barriers to compliance.

METHODS

Forty‐seven school districts provided P&P documents. We examined compliance with the Act and the relationship between compliance and each district's demographics.

RESULTS

Compliance varied across school districts, with higher overall compliance in large city school districts compared to county districts. However, there was low compliance for several critical items. We found no statistically significant relationship between compliance and demographics.

CONCLUSIONS

School districts need to increase compliance with concussion legislation to ensure the adequate implementation necessary for the law to impact health and educational outcomes. The results provide important information to individuals charged with the responsibility of implementation and ultimately reducing the negative outcomes associated with brain injuries in schools.
Effect of Forced Sexual Intercourse on Associations Between Early Sexual Debut and Other Health Risk Behaviors Among US High School Students
Authors: Lowry Richard , Robin Leah , Kann Laura
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Previous research on associations between early sexual debut and other health risk behaviors has not examined the effect of forced sexual intercourse on those associations.

METHODS

We analyzed data from a nationally representative sample of 19,240 high school students in the United States, age ≥16 years, to describe the effect of forced sexual intercourse on associations between early sexual debut and other health risk behaviors using adjusted prevalence ratios (APR).

RESULTS

Early sexual debut and forced sexual intercourse were simultaneously and independently associated with sexual risk‐taking, violence‐related behaviors, and substance use. For example, even after controlling for forced sexual intercourse and race/ethnicity, students who experienced their first sexual intercourse before age 13 years were more likely than students who initiated sexual intercourse at age ≥16 years to have had ≥4 sexual partners during their lifetime (girls, APR = 4.55; boys, APR = 5.82) and to have not used a condom at last sexual intercourse (girls, APR = 1.74; boys, APR = 1.47).

CONCLUSIONS

Associations between early sexual debut and other health risk behaviors occur independently of forced sexual intercourse. School‐based sexual health education programs might appropriately include strategies that encourage delay of initiation of sexual intercourse, and coordinate with violence and substance use prevention programs.
Trend Analysis of Bullying Victimization Prevalence in Spanish Adolescent Youth at School
Authors: Sánchez‐Queija Inmaculada , García‐Moya Irene , Moreno Carmen
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

We analyze trends in bullying victimization prevalence in a representative sample of Spanish adolescent schoolchildren in 2006, 2010, and 2014.

METHODS

We distinguish between reported bullying, which is assessed via the global question in the Revised Bully/Victim Questionnaire by Olweus, and observed bullying, which is a measure developed from the answers that the adolescents gave to specific items that refer to different types of bullying that have been codified as physical, verbal, and relational bullying.

RESULTS

For 2006 and 2010/2014, the results show stability in the assessment of reported bullying and an increase in observed bullying, analyzed both globally and within the 3 categories: physical, verbal, and relational.

CONCLUSIONS

A valid, reliable, and accurate measure to detect cases of bullying is necessary, as is the importance of continuing efforts devoted to raising awareness and the prevention of this phenomenon.
Implementing a Nutrition and Physical Activity Curriculum in Head Start Through an Academic‐Community Partnership
Authors: Zahnd Whitney E. , Smith Tracey , Ryherd Susan J. , Cleer Melissa , Rogers Valerie , Steward David E.
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Schools may be an effective avenue for interventions that prevent childhood obesity. I am Moving I am Learning/Choosy Kids© (IMIL/CK) is a curriculum recommended by Head Start (HS) for education in nutrition, physical activity, and healthy lifestyle habits.

METHODS

We formed an academic‐community partnership (ACP), the Springfield Collaborative for Active Child Health, to promote prevention of childhood obesity, in part, to implement the IMIL/CK curriculum in local HS sites. The ACP included a medical school, HS program, public school district, and state health department.

RESULTS

Community‐based participatory research principles helped identify and organize important implementation activities: community engagement, curriculum support, professional teacher training, and evaluation. IMIL/CK was piloted in 1 school then implemented in all local HS sites. All sites were engaged in IMIL/CK professional teacher training, classroom curriculum delivery, and child physical activity assessments. Local HS policy changed to include IMIL/CK in lesson plans and additional avenues of collaboration were initiated. Furthermore, improvements in physical activity and/or maintenance or improvement of healthy weight prevalence was seen in 4 of the 5 years evaluated.

CONCLUSIONS

An ACP is an effective vehicle to implement and evaluate childhood obesity prevention programming in HS sites.
School and Neighborhood Predictors of Physical Fitness in Elementary School Students
Authors: Kahan David , McKenzie Thomas L.
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

We assessed the associations of 5 school and 7 neighborhood variables with fifth‐grade students achieving Healthy Fitness Zone (HFZ) or Needs Improvement‐Health Risk (NI‐HR) on aerobic capacity (AC) and body composition (BC) physical fitness components of the state‐mandated FITNESSGRAM® physical fitness test.

METHODS

Data for outcome (physical fitness) and predictor (school and neighborhood) variables were extracted from various databases (eg, Data Quest, Walk Score®) for 160 schools located in San Diego, California. Predictor variables that were at least moderately correlated (|r| ≥ .30) with ≥1 outcome variables in univariate analyses were retained for ordinary least squares regression analyses.

RESULTS

The mean percentages of students achieving HFZ AC (65.7%) and BC (63.5%) were similar (t = 1.13, p = .26), while those for NI‐HR zones were significantly different (AC = 6.0% vs BC = 18.6%; t = 12.60, p < .001). Correlations were greater in magnitude for school than neighborhood demographics and stronger for BC than AC. The school variables free/reduced‐price lunch (negative) and math achievement (positive) predicted fitness scores. Among neighborhood variables, percent Hispanic predicted failure of meeting the HFZ BC criterion.

CONCLUSIONS

Creating school and neighborhood environments conducive to promoting physical activity and improving fitness is warranted.
An exploratory study into factors influencing development of acute canine polyradiculoneuritis in the UK
Authors: Laws E. J. , Harcourt‐Brown T. R. , Granger N. , Rose J. H.
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To investigate whether the development of acute canine polyradiculoneuritis is associated with various putative risk factors.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective case–control study with conditional logistic regression analysis from a referral hospital population in theUKwhere controls were matched for year of presentation.

Results

Forty‐three cases were identified with acute canine polyradiculoneuritis and 86 controls were selected. Jack Russell terriers and West Highland white terriers were found to have a significantly greater odds of developing acute canine polyradiculoneuritis compared to a mixed baseline group of dogs. The odds of developing acute canine polyradiculoneuritis were greater in the autumn and winter compared to spring. Vaccination, rural/urban habitation, sex, neuter status and age were not associated with development of acute canine polyradiculoneuritis in our population of dogs.

Clinical Significance

Breed and season were associated with development of acute canine polyradiculoneuritis. However, this is a small sample and so this observation needs confirmation in further studies and other factors may also be involved. Nevertheless, these findings may be important in further understanding the aetiopathogenesis of this condition.
Shocked chromites in fossil L chondrites: A Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy study
Authors: Rout Surya S. , Heck Philipp R. , Zaluzec Nestor J. , Ishii Takayuki , Wen Jianguo , Miller Dean J. , Schmitz Birger
Published: May 2017

Chromites from Middle Ordovician fossil L chondrites and from matrix and shock‐melt veins in Catherwood, Tenham, and Coorara L chondrites were studied using Raman spectroscopy and TEM. Raman spectra of chromites from fossil L chondrites showed similarities with chromites from matrix and shock‐melt veins in the studied L chondrite falls and finds. Chromites from shock‐melt veins of L chondrites show polycrystallinity, while the chromite grains in fossil L chondrites are single crystals. In addition, chromites from shock‐melt veins in the studied L chondrites have high densities of planar fractures within the subgrains and many subgrains show intergrowths of chromite and xieite. Matrix chromite of Tenham has similar dislocation densities and planar fractures as a chromite from the fossil meteorite Golvsten 001 and higher dislocation densities than in chromite from the fossil meteorite Sextummen 003. Using this observation and knowing that the matrix of Tenham experienced 20–22 GPa and <1000° C, an upper limit for the P,T conditions of chromite from Golvsten 001 and Sextummen 003 can be estimated to be 20–22 GPa and 1000° C (shock stage S3–S6) and 20 GPa and 1000° C (S3–S5), respectively, and we conclude that the studied fossil meteorite chromites are from matrix.
Chemical activation of adenylyl cyclase Rv1625c inhibits growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis on cholesterol and modulates intramacrophage signaling
Authors: Johnson Richard M. , Bai Guangchun , DeMott Christopher M. , Banavali Nilesh K. , Montague Christine R. , Moon Caroline , Shekhtman Alexander , VanderVen Brian , McDonough Kathleen A.
Published: May 2017

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) uses a complex 3′, 5′‐cyclic AMP (cAMP) signaling network to sense and respond to changing environments encountered during infection, so perturbation of cAMP signaling might be leveraged to disrupt Mtb pathogenesis. However, understanding of cAMP signaling pathways is hindered by the presence of at least 15 distinct adenylyl cyclases (ACs). Recently, the small molecule V‐58 was shown to inhibit Mtb replication within macrophages and stimulate cAMP production in Mtb. Here we determined that V‐58 rapidly and directly activates Mtb AC Rv1625c to produce high levels of cAMP regardless of the bacterial environment or growth medium. Metabolic inhibition by V‐58 was carbon source dependent in Mtb and did not occur in Mycobacterium smegmatis, suggesting that V‐58‐mediated growth inhibition is due to interference with specific Mtb metabolic pathways rather than a generalized cAMP toxicity. Chemical stimulation of cAMP production by Mtb within macrophages also caused down regulation of TNF‐α production by the macrophages, indicating a complex role for cAMP in Mtb pathogenesis. Together these studies describe a novel approach for targeted stimulation of cAMP production in Mtb, and provide new insights into the myriad roles of cAMP signaling in Mtb, particularly during Mtb's interactions with macrophages.
Does it Pay to Work for Free? Negative Selection and the Wage Returns to Volunteer Experience
Authors: Cozzi Guido , Mantovan Noemi , Sauer Robert M.
Published: May 2017

This paper offers the first instrumental variables estimates of the wage returns to volunteer experience. The returns are substantial and differ considerably by gender. The results imply that the unequal valuation of volunteer experience by gender is more important in explaining the gender earnings gap than is the unequal valuation of part‐time paid work experience. The results also indicate negative selection into unpaid work. In a simple model of optimal volunteering, negative selection implies that a lower cost of volunteering would produce both an expanded and higher‐skilled pool of volunteers, and greater societal benefits from volunteer work.
Mating affects resource selection and modulates associational effects between neighbouring resources
Authors: Verschut Thomas A. , Hambäck Peter A. , Anderson Peter
Published: May 2017

Associational effects occur when the attack rate on a resource depends on neighbouring resources in the environment. These effects are predicted to result from mismatches experienced by the consumer organism in resource selection along hierarchical search levels. As resource selection depends on sensory information used during search behaviour, we expected that different physiological states of an insect might modulate the outcome of associational effects due to differences in resource selection. We used Drosophila melanogaster, as a model organism for olfactory‐guided behaviour in insects, to study the effects of mating induced behavioural changes on associational effects between two alternative resources. We found that mating has no effect on the ability of D. melanogaster to locate resource patches, but rather affects the perception of the resources within the patch. Consequently, we only found associational effects in the experiments with unmated females and not in the experiments with mated females. Our results suggest that the lack of associational effects for mated females resulted from changes in the use of short‐range olfactory cues, leading to random selection among the resources. In conclusion, our results suggest that the physiological state of an insect modulates associational effects by affecting resource selection rates within the patch.
Major limb deformities as complications of vascular access in neonates
Authors: FULLILOVE SUE , FIXSEN JOHN
Published: May 2017

Four case histories are used to illustrate orthopaedic complications of vascular access in neonates. The two main pathologies, extravasation and thrombosis, are discussed and the management of each outlined. Mechanisms of avoidance of such complications are described and advocated.
Ambient Temperature and Risk of Preeclampsia: Biased Association?
Authors: Auger Nathalie , Siemiatycki Jack , Bilodeau‐Bertrand Marianne , Healy‐Profitós Jessica , Kosatsky Tom
Published: May 2017

Background

Preeclampsia is associated with conception during warm months and delivery during cold months. We sought to determine whether season of conception and shorter gestation bias the associations.

Methods

We used hospital discharge summaries to identify 65 273 pregnancies with and 1 825 438 without preeclampsia in Quebec, Canada between 1989 and 2012. We obtained data on mean temperature for the month following conception and the month before hospital admission. We used cubic splines in log‐binomial models to estimate the association between temperature and preeclampsia (risk ratios, RR; 95% confidence interval, CI). To assess the potential for bias, we compared models progressively adjusted for baseline maternal characteristics, season of conception, and length of gestation at admission.

Results

With adjustment for baseline maternal characteristics only, risk of preeclampsia was higher for hot temperatures at conception and cold temperatures at end of pregnancy. Adjusting for season at conception removed the association between preeclampsia and temperature at conception. Adjustment for length of gestation removed the association between preeclampsia and temperature at end of pregnancy.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that associations between ambient temperature and preeclampsia may be biased by short gestation, because preeclampsia commonly occurs earlier in pregnancy. Temperatures during gestation change with time for all women, and temperatures early in pregnancy frequently differ from temperatures later in pregnancy. Variation in temperature over gestation may lead to a coincidental association with preeclampsia.
“A Journey for Peace”: Spatial Metaphors in Nixon's 1972 “Opening to China”
Authors: Carney Zoë Hess , Prasch Allison M.
Published: May 2017

Richard Nixon's “opening to China” is regarded as one of the most significant moments of U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War. Through his rhetoric before, during, and after his visit to the People's Republic of China, the president moved from established metaphors of communist nations and peoples as “savage enemies” and descriptions of “Red China” as a nation “lost” to communism to a narrative that suggested openness and friendship. In this essay, we argue that Nixon's use of spatial, territorial, and orientational metaphors such as “journey for peace,” “open the door,” “bridge,” “wall,” “common ground,” and “close the gulf,” compounded with his physical presence in China, are key for understanding the force of his rhetoric during this shift in U.S. Cold War foreign policy. In discursively and politically opening transnational U.S.–China relations, Nixon weakened the polarized East–West ideological and geographic divide and provided a new vision of Cold War geopolitics.
Can Subjects Be Proper Parts of Subjects? The De‐Combination Problem
Authors: Miller Gregory
Published: May 2017

Growing concern with the panpsychist's ostensive inability to solve the ‘combination problem’ has led some authors to adopt a view titled ‘Cosmopsychism’. This position turns panpsychism on its head: rather than many tiny atomic minds, there is instead one cosmos‐sized mind. It is supposed that this view voids the combination problem, however I argue that it does not. I argue that there is a ‘de‐combination problem’ facing the cosmopsychist, which is equivalent to the combination problem as they are both concerned with subjects being proper parts of other subjects. I then propose two methods for both theorists to avoid the problem of subject‐subject proper parthood relations: a distinction between absolute and relative phenomenal unity, and a modification of the essential nature of subjects. Of these two options, I find the latter option wanting and propose that the first should be adopted.
Theorizing the radical right: Directions for social movements research on the right‐wing social movements
Authors: Kincaid John D.
Published: May 2017

Most current social movement theory has been built by observing movements on the left. This poses a number of problems when we try to port those theories over to social movements on the right. This paper examines how existing social movement theory falls short in explaining the rise of right‐wing social movements and their profound influence in the Republican Party. This paper combines a critical literature review with an eye toward adapting and synthesizing existing theoretical frameworks on social movements in ways that account for the unique aspects of right‐wing movements.
An agenda for research on work and class in the postsocialist world
Authors: Morris Jeremy
Published: May 2017

This article reviews the scholarly treatment of work and class in postsocialist states. It traces how class discourses under socialism led to a lack of meaningful working class studies in the postsocialist academy. It offers as an agenda for future research three points of departure: (a) greater confrontation of the one‐sided discourse on class in these societies and the academy itself (class blindness of research). (b) The value in studying postsocialist societies both comparatively to global North and South, and as an intermediate positioning for worker exploitation and responses in global capitalism. (c) To achieve the first 2 agenda items, a more grounded methodological approach proceeding from the lived experience of class and work is proposed.

Current research on social networks, memory studies and personhood, the informal economy, deindustrialization, and the “domestication” of neoliberalism show that empirically grounded work on postsocialist working classes can make important contributions to wider social science debates. Studying the “losers” of postcommunist transition can tell us much about populist politics, the rise of the global working class outside the global North and the nature of global capitalist exploitation more generally. In addition, this agenda serves as an important point of departure from the dominant middle class focus of research in postsocialism.
Women's status and global food security: An overview
Authors: Bhandari Aarushi
Published: May 2017

Scholars are increasingly examining how gender interacts with food security, with specific attention given to women. This is not surprising, given that women make up 43% of the global agricultural labor force and are responsible for producing almost half of the global agricultural food supply. Since women tend to be disproportionately responsible for taking care of household activities, including the production, purchase, preparation, and allocation of food‐based resources—particularly in the developing world—there is a scholarly consensus that an improvement in women's status has a positive impact on nutritional outcomes. Current scholarship on gender and food security is thus broadly divided into relationships between food security and women's economic freedoms, legal opportunities, and both formal and informal education via improved knowledge of agricultural procedures. In this review, I draw attention to the role that sociologists can play in engaging these topics, and I specifically highlight the need to conduct more cross‐national and longitudinal analyses of women's status and food security. Finally, I point towards recent studies that assess the impacts of Information and Communication Technologies on food security, and suggest the need to explicate the role of gender within such processes.
Effects of cropping systems under no‐till agriculture on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in Argentinean Pampas
Authors: Noelia Cofré M. , Ferrari A. E. , Becerra A. , Domínguez L. , Wall L. G. , Urcelay C.
Published: May 2017

Here, we compare arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) communities and fatty acids in soils under different no‐till (NT) agricultural managements over two seasons in two consecutive years. Two NT practices with different agricultural managements were compared: crop rotation (CR) and soya bean monoculture (MC). Soils of natural grasslands (NGs) were used as a reference. Treatments were tested along a regional gradient (four geographical locations) across a 400‐km transect of the Argentinean Pampas. We identified 46 morphospecies. Several morphospecies occurred abundantly at all soils; others appeared to be restricted to specific situations. At the regional scale, CR maintained the same richness levels of AMF spores, whereas MC showed less richness, when compared with the NG. Although AMF spore density was clearly affected by cropping practices in the four locations, we could observe some changes in AMF species richness, and similar diversity under agricultural and natural soils. Fatty acid concentrations (whole‐cell, phospholipid and neutral lipid fatty acids) revealed differences between soil managements and showed similar patterns of variation in all locations. Spore density positively correlated with all soil lipids fractions. The results suggest that AMF spore communities and fatty acids in soils are suitable indicators of soil management involving different levels of crop rotation. Spore richness measured at a regional scale proved to be sensitive to different NT agricultural managements. Moreover, certain morphospecies could be good bioindicators for NT practices based on cropping systems on the Argentinean Pampas.
Seasonal variation in child mortality in rural Guinea‐Bissau
Authors: Nielsen Bibi Uhre , Byberg Stine , Aaby Peter , Rodrigues Amabelia , Benn Christine Stabell , Fisker Ane Bærent
Published: May 2017

Objectives

In many African countries, child mortality is higher in the rainy season than in the dry season. We investigated the effect of season on child mortality by time periods, sex and age in rural Guinea‐Bissau.

Methods

Bandim health project follows children under‐five in a health and demographic surveillance system in rural Guinea‐Bissau. We compared the mortality in the rainy season (June to November) between 1990 and 2013 with the mortality in the dry season (December to May) in Cox proportional hazards models providing rainy vs. dry season mortality rate ratios (r/d‐mrr). Seasonal effects were estimated in strata defined by time periods with different frequency of vaccination campaigns, sex and age (<1 month, 1–11 months, 12–59 months). Verbal autopsies were interpreted using InterVa‐4 software.

Results

From 1990 to 2013, overall mortality was declined by almost two‐thirds among 81 292 children (10 588 deaths). Mortality was 51% (95% ci: 45–58%) higher in the rainy season than in the dry season throughout the study period. The seasonal difference increased significantly with age, the r/d‐mrr being 0.94 (0.86–1.03) among neonates, 1.57 (1.46–1.69) in post‐neonatal infants and 1.83 (1.72–1.95) in under‐five children (P for same effect <0.001). According to the InterVa, malaria deaths were the main reason for the seasonal mortality difference, causing 50% of all deaths in the rainy season, but only if the InterVa included season of death, making the argument self‐confirmatory.

Conclusion

The mortality declined throughout the study, yet rainy season continued to be associated with 51% higher overall mortality.
Multidetector computed tomographic pulmonary angiography in a cat with fatal heartworm disease
Authors: Panopoulos Ioannis , Specchi Swan , Soubasis Nektarios , Papastefanou Anastasia , Brellou Georgia , Auriemma Edoardo
Published: May 2017

A 17‐month‐old neutered male domestic shorthair cat was referred for a computed tomographic (CT) study of the thorax due to respiratory distress. Multidetector CT angiography showed a multifocal interstitial ground glass opacity, tortuous and blunted pulmonary arteries consistent with thromboembolism with perivascular lung infiltration and hypoventilation in multiple lung lobes. A blood antigen test was positive for Dirofilaria immitis. The cat's clinical condition rapidly declined and the owners elected euthanasia. The histopathologic examination confirmed heartworm disease with parasitic pulmonary thromboembolism.
A comparison of two dose calculation algorithms—anisotropic analytical algorithm and Acuros XB—for radiation therapy planning of canine intranasal tumors
Authors: Nagata Koichi , Pethel Timothy D.
Published: May 2017

Although anisotropic analytical algorithm (AAA) and Acuros XB (AXB) are both radiation dose calculation algorithms that take into account the heterogeneity within the radiation field, Acuros XB is inherently more accurate. The purpose of this retrospective method comparison study was to compare them and evaluate the dose discrepancy within the planning target volume (PTV). Radiation therapy (RT) plans of 11 dogs with intranasal tumors treated by radiation therapy at the University of Georgia were evaluated. All dogs were planned for intensity‐modulated radiation therapy using nine coplanar X‐ray beams that were equally spaced, then dose calculated with anisotropic analytical algorithm. The same plan with the same monitor units was then recalculated using Acuros XB for comparisons. Each dog's planning target volume was separated into air, bone, and tissue and evaluated. The mean dose to the planning target volume estimated by Acuros XB was 1.3% lower. It was 1.4% higher for air, 3.7% lower for bone, and 0.9% lower for tissue. The volume of planning target volume covered by the prescribed dose decreased by 21% when Acuros XB was used due to increased dose heterogeneity within the planning target volume. Anisotropic analytical algorithm relatively underestimates the dose heterogeneity and relatively overestimates the dose to the bone and tissue within the planning target volume for the radiation therapy planning of canine intranasal tumors. This can be clinically significant especially if the tumor cells are present within the bone, because it may result in relative underdosing of the tumor.
In vitro comparison of 3 techniques of prosthesis attachment to the muscular process of the equine arytenoid cartilage
Authors: Ahern Benjamin J. , Van Eps Andrew W. , Boston Raymond C. , Franklin Samantha H.
Published: May 2017

Objective

To determine the degree and ease of arytenoid abduction achieved with abaxial placement of a FASTak II suture anchor compared to 2 suture patterns with different directions of insertion—caudomedial to craniolateral and medial to lateral.

Study design

Ex vivo experimental.

Study population

Cadaveric larynges from 10 Standardbred racehorses.

Methods

Each larynx was sequentially instrumented with all 3 arytenoid suture attachment in random order: (1) abaxial placement of a FASTak II suture, (2) caudomedial to craniolateral suture, and (3) medial to lateral suture placement. Each construct was abducted at 5N increments from 0 to 25N and the left to right quotient angle ratio (LRQ) measured from digital pictures acquired at each sequential increment.

Results

Arytenoid abduction (higher LRQ) was greater with FASTak II construct than either of the suture patterns. The largest difference occurred at 5N. Approximately 50% less force was required to achieve an LRQ of 1.0 with the FASTak II anchor compared to the suture patterns. No difference was detected between the 2 suture constructs throughout the study.

Conclusion

Use of the FASTak II suture anchor improved arytenoid abduction compared to 2 suture patterns and minimized the suture loads required to achieve maximum arytenoid abduction.

Clinical relevance

Use of the FASTak II anchor may decrease the suture load required to achieve arytenoid abduction in clinical cases. This may reduce the load placed on the laryngoplasty, thereby, minimizing postoperative loss of abduction.
THE CHRISTIAN'S DILEMMA: ORGANICISM OR MECHANISM?
Authors: Ruse Michael
Published: May 2017

Is organicism inherently Christian‐friendly, and for that matter, is mechanism inherently religion nonfriendly? They have tended to be, but the story is much more complicated. The long history of the intertwined metaphors of nature taken as an organism, versus that of nature as a machine, reveals that both metaphors have flourished in the endeavors of philosophers, scientists, and persons of faith alike. Different kinds of Christians have been receptive to both organicist and mechanistic models, just as various kinds of nonreligious scientists have been receptive to both holistic and machine metaphors. Although, it is true, organicism has been generally more attractive to persons of faith than mechanism (and vice versa), an overview of the rich and varied history of allegiances to these metaphors—religious and nonreligious alike—shows that debate is much more interesting and complex. A brief inspection of conversation surrounding recent scientific discoveries shows that this debate between metaphors is still very much alive today.
DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY, NATURAL SELECTION, AND THE CONCEPTUAL BOUNDARIES OF THE MODERN EVOLUTIONARY SYNTHESIS
Authors: Depew David J. , Weber Bruce H.
Published: May 2017

Using the evolution of the stickleback family of subarctic fish as a touchstone, we explore the effect of new discoveries about regulatory genetics, developmental plasticity, and epigenetic inheritance on the conceptual foundations of the Modern Evolutionary Synthesis. Identifying the creativity of natural selection as the hallmark of the Modern Synthesis, we show that since its inception its adherents have pursued a variety of research projects that at first seemed to conflict with its principles, but were accommodated. We situate challenges coming from developmental biology in a dialectic between innovation and tradition, suggesting on the basis of past episodes that even if developmental plasticity and epigenetic inheritance are aligned with its principles the Modern Synthesis (and its image in the public reception of evolution) will be significantly affected.
THE PROBLEM OF “GOD” IN PSYCHOLOGY OF RELIGION: LONERGAN'S “COMMON SENSE” (RELIGION) VERSUS “THEORY” (THEOLOGY)
Authors: Helminiak Daniel A.
Published: May 2017

The emphasis on God in American psychology of religion generates the problem of explaining divine‐versus‐natural causality in “spiritual experiences.” Especially “theistic psychology” champions divine involvement. However, its argument exposes a methodological error: to pit popular religious opinions against technical scientific conclusions. Countering such homogenizing “postmodern agnosticism,” Bernard Lonergan explained these two as different modes of thinking: “common sense” and “theory”—which resolves the problem: When theoretical science is matched with theoretical theology, “the God‐hypothesis” explains the existence of things whereas science explains their natures; and, barring miracles, God is irrelevant to natural science. A review of the field shows that the problem is pervasive; attention to “miracles”—popularly so‐named versus technically—focuses the claims of divine‐versus‐natural causality; and specifications of the meaning ofspiritual,spirituality,science,worldview, andmeaningitself (suffering that same ambiguity: personal import versus cognitive content) offer further clarity. The problem is not naturalism versus theism, but commonsensical versus theoretical thinking. This solution demands “hard” social science.
A New Approach to Teaching Biomechanics Through Active, Adaptive, and Experiential Learning
Authors: Singh Anita
Published: May 2017

Demand of biomedical engineers continues to rise to meet the needs of healthcare industry. Current training of bioengineers follows the traditional and dominant model of theory-focused curricula. However, the unmet needs of the healthcare industry warrant newer skill sets in these engineers. Translational training strategies such as solving real world problems through active, adaptive, and experiential learning hold promise. In this paper, we report our findings of adding a real-world 4-week problem-based learning unit into a biomechanics capstone course for engineering students. Surveys assessed student perceptions of the activity and learning experience. While students, across three cohorts, felt challenged to solve a real-world problem identified during the simulation lab visit, they felt more confident in utilizing knowledge learned in the biomechanics course and self-directed research. Instructor evaluations indicated that the active and experiential learning approach fostered their technical knowledge and life-long learning skills while exposing them to the components of adaptive learning and innovation.