bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultural Differences in Revaluative Attributions
Authors: Li Yaoran , Liu Rude , Schachtman Todd R.
Published: October 2015

Culture can impact cognitive processes, including effects on causal attributions. This study examined cultural differences in revaluative attributions when two potential causes of an outcome are initially present, but new relevant causal information is later available, suggesting potential adjustments could be made with respect to the original judgment. Study 1 ( N = 206) found that both Chinese and American participants showed revaluative attributions regarding the target cause when a nontarget cause was decreased in its validity during a subsequent phase. That is, the target cause was later judged as more valid when a nontarget cause was decreased in validity (the deflation effect). However, only American participants exhibited a significant decrease in the perceived validity of a target cause when the nontarget cause was increased in its validity (the inflation effect). Study 2 ( N = 189) replicated these findings and also showed that dialectical thinking was a mediator of this cultural difference in revaluative attributions. The present study shows that culturally shaped cognitive processing can influence multicausal inferences.
In/Exclusion in the Clinic: Down’s Syndrome, Dysmorphology and the Ethics of Everyday Medical Work
Authors: Thomas Gareth M , Latimer Joanna
Published: October 2015

In this article, we draw on two clinical ethnographies to explore how mundane social practices, affective processes and cultural materials (re)produce divisions and forms of in/exclusion. By treating everyday life and routines as serious categories of analysis, we identify how power relations are accomplished and how persons/future persons – namely the ‘dysmorphic’ child or the foetus who has or may have Down’s syndrome – are constituted as un/valued or in/excluded. In relation to dysmorphology, we show how the living dysmorphic child is given shelter but future reproductions of such children are enacted negatively and as to be avoided. With reference to Down’s syndrome, we capture how the condition is made absent in the antenatal clinic and constituted as a negative outcome. In sum, we recognise how exploring the micro and everyday reveals who/what is valued and how particular ways of being in the world are threatened, denied or effaced.
Discrepant Patterns of Heavy Drinking, Marijuana Use, and Smoking and Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Cunradi Carol B. , Todd Michael , Mair Christina
Published: October 2015

This study analyzed whether discrepant (husband or wife use only) or concordant (both partners use) patterns of heavy drinking, marijuana use, and smoking are associated with increased risk for male-to-female partner violence and female-to-male partner violence among adult couples. Based on a geographic sample of married or cohabiting couples residing in 50 California cities, logistic regression analyses were conducted using dyadic data on past-year partner violence, binge drinking and frequency of intoxication, marijuana use, and smoking. When all substance use patterns were included simultaneously, wife-only heavy drinking couples were at elevated risk for male-to-female partner violence, as were concordant marijuana-using couples. Husband-only marijuana discrepant couples were at increased risk for female-to-male partner violence. Further research is needed to explore the processes by which discrepant and concordant substance use patterns may contribute to partner aggression.
Attitudes toward Accents of Standard English in Jamaican Radio Newscasting
Authors: Westphal Michael
Published: October 2015

In Jamaica, in the process of endonormative stabilization, new norms for Standard English speech emerge in a competition between local, British, and American influences. Language attitude research can provide an important perspective on this process from the users’ point of view. This study addresses the issue of competing English norms in Jamaican radio newscasting by studying both newscasters’ language use and the language attitudes of Jamaican university students as the audience. The analysis of language use demonstrates that Jamaican English is the strongest force in the three-way norm competition. The students’ language attitudes toward the linguistic diversity of Jamaican newscasts are multivalent: Jamaican Creole is disfavored in newscasts, and there is overt recognition and support for the national standard variety, while more covertly there is linguistic deference toward exonormative influences. A folk-linguistic assessment shows that the foreign influences have been integrated into the Jamaican students’ notion of Standard English in the context of newscasts. These results provide a Jamaican perspective on the complexity and context sensitivity of endonormative stabilization processes in today’s globalized world.
Renal microcysts and lithium
Authors: Khan Mashal , El-Mallakh Rif S
Published: October 2015

Objective

To review the relationship between lithium-related renal dysfunction and microcysts.

Method

Electronic databases (PubMed and Google Scholar) were queried.

Results

From a total of 12,425 publications, 76 were reviewed.

Discussion

Glomerular renal dysfunction occurs after an average of 20 years of continuous lithium treatment, and the severity is related to the total lithium load as measured by dose and duration. Recently, several reports have highlighted the relationship between renal microcyst formation and significant reductions in glomerular filtration rate. Radiologically visible lithium-related microcysts are usually 1–2 mm and occasionally 3 mm. Smaller cysts, which are impossible to resolve, are probably more common than the visible cysts, based on observations of renal needle biopsies. Increases in the number of microcysts and the space they occupy within kidney volume appear to be related to both the duration of lithium treatment and the reduction in kidney function. The proposed mechanism of microcyst formation is related to the antiapoptotic effect of lithium. Specifically, by preventing renal tubular epithelial cells from undergoing apoptosis as part of the process of normal renal maintenance, lithium may be allowing the inappropriate growth of the surface area of tubules to form invaginations and ultimately cysts. It is proposed that the physical space occupied by these cysts in the limited volume within the renal capsule compromises the function of otherwise healthy renal tissue. Monitoring of kidneys utilizing radiographic imaging may be more sensitive than monitoring laboratory values. Additional research is required to optimize this new monitoring tool.
Targeting Quality Improvement in Clinical Practice Guidelines
Authors: Mims James W.
Published: October 2015

Clinical practice guidelines provide key action statements targeted at quality improvements. Areas of potential quality improvement can be identified by exploring known contributors to cognitive errors. Three common contributors to medical error and reduced quality care are (1) the complexity of modern medicine, (2) the tendency to apply cause and effect to random associations, and (3) our bias to our first intuition. Future authors of clinical practice guidelines should consider these 3 influences when deciding how to best provide guidance to improve patient care.
“Language,” “communication,” and the longing for the authentic in LSP testing
Authors: Hoekje Barbara
Published: October 2015

This commentary argues that the OET research raises inescapable contradictions in trying to separate “language” from “communication” within a weak performance test and advocates for reconceptualizing the legitimate domain of “language” more widely, reclaiming the full potential of the communicative competence framework.
Production and perception of the English /æ/–/ɑ/ contrast in switched-dominance speakers
Authors: Casillas Joseph V , Simonet Miquel
Published: October 2015

This study investigates how fluent second-language (L2) learners of English produce and perceive the /æ/–/ɑ/ vowel contrast of Southwestern American English. Two learner groups are examined: (1) early, proficient English speakers who were raised by Spanish-speaking families but who became dominant in English during childhood and, as adults, lack communicative abilities in Spanish, and (2) Spanish-speaking late learners of English who continue to be dominant in Spanish. The participants provided data in three tasks: one production and two perceptual. The study finds that both learner groups differ from native controls in their production and perception of the /æ/–/ɑ/ contrast. The findings shed light on our understanding of the relative effects of age (at onset of language exposure) and language dominance (at time of testing) by showing that sequential bilingualism impacts phonetic behavior even when speakers have become dominant in the target language.
Transfer of L1 visual word recognition strategies during early stages of L2 learning: Evidence from Hebrew learners whose first language is either Semitic or Indo-European
Authors: Norman Tal , Degani Tamar , Peleg Orna
Published: October 2015

The present study examined visual word recognition processes in Hebrew (a Semitic language) among beginning learners whose first language (L1) was either Semitic (Arabic) or Indo-European (e.g. English). To examine if learners, like native Hebrew speakers, exhibit morphological sensitivity to root and word-pattern morphemes, learners made an off-line graded lexical decision task on unfamiliar letter strings. Critically, these letter strings were manipulated to include or exclude familiar Hebrew morphemes. The results demonstrate differential morphological sensitivity as a function of participants’ language background. In particular, Indo-European-L1 learners exhibited increased sensitivity to word-pattern familiarity, with little effect of root familiarity. In contrast, Semitic-L1 learners exhibited non-additive sensitivity to both morphemes. Specifically, letter strings with a familiar root and a familiar word-pattern were the most likely to be judged as real words by this L1-Semitic group, whereas strings with a familiar root in the absence of a familiar word-pattern were the most likely to lead to a non-word decision. These findings show that both groups of learners activate their morphological knowledge in Hebrew in order to process unfamiliar Hebrew words. Critically, the findings further demonstrate transfer of L1 word recognition processes during the initial stages of second language (L2) learning.
Lesions of Copper Toxicosis in Captive Marine Invertebrates With Comparisons to Normal Histology
Authors: LaDouceur E. E. B. , Wynne J. , Garner M. M. , Nyaoke A. , Keel M. K.
Published: October 2015

Despite increasing concern for coral reef ecosystem health within the last decade, there is scant literature concerning the histopathology of diseases affecting the major constituents of coral reef ecosystems, particularly marine invertebrates. This study describes histologic findings in 6 species of marine invertebrates (California sea hare [ Aplysia californica], purple sea urchin [ Strongylocentrotus purpuratus], sunburst anemone [ Anthopleura sola], knobby star [ Pisaster giganteus], bat star [ Asterina miniata], and brittle star [ Ophiopteris papillosa]) with spontaneous copper toxicosis, 4 purple sea urchins with experimentally induced copper toxicosis, and 1 unexposed control of each species listed. The primary lesions in the California sea hare with copper toxicosis were branchial and nephridial necrosis. Affected echinoderms shared several histologic lesions, including epidermal necrosis and ulceration and increased numbers of coelomocytes within the water-vascular system. The sunburst anemone with copper toxicosis had necrosis of both epidermis and gastrodermis, as well as expulsion of zooxanthellae from the gastrodermis. In addition to the lesions attributed to copper toxicosis, our results describe normal microscopic features of these animals that may be useful for histopathologic assessment of marine invertebrates.
Are Muscle Strength and Function of the Uninjured Lower Limb Weakened After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury?
Authors: Chung Kyu Sung , Ha Jeong Ku , Yeom Cheol Hyun , Ra Ho Jong , Lim Jin Woo , Kwon Min Soo , Kim Jin Goo
Published: October 2015

Background:

After an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, the uninjured contralateral lower limb may become weakened because of neuromuscular changes, proprioceptive deficits, and disuse of the limb; this weakness predisposes the limb to ACL injury. However, no results have been reported regarding weakness in the contralateral limb after ACL injury.

Hypothesis:

Muscle strength and functional status of the contralateral lower limb are reduced after unilateral ACL injury.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The ACL group consisted of 75 patients who underwent primary unilateral ACL reconstruction and were followed at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. A group of 75 healthy individuals (controls) were matched one-to-one with the ACL group for age, sex, body mass index, and initial Tegner activity level. The side that was evaluated in each control subject corresponded to the injured limb in the matched ACL subject. Isokinetic muscle strength, including extension peak torque per body weight (EPT) and flexion peak torque per body weight (FPT), was evaluated at angular velocities of 60 and 180 deg/s. Patients were also evaluated by single-legged hop test.

Results:

Compared with the EPT at 60 deg/s in the control group (290.9 ± 40.1 N·m/kg), the value in the ACL group 24-month follow-up (276.6 ± 42.8 N·m/kg) as well as other follow-up times was significantly lower ( P < .05), whereas the EPT at 180 deg/s and the FPT at 60 and 180 deg/s in the ACL group were significantly lower than the control group at 3-month follow-up but were restored to normal levels at final follow-up. Results from the single-legged hop test demonstrated that the ACL group performed at a significantly lower level than the control group at 24-month follow-up (158.4 ± 25.3 vs 176.3 ± 24.7 cm; P < .05) as well as other follow-up times. However, both measurements improved significantly as the follow-up time progressed.

Conclusion:

After ACL injury, isokinetic extensor muscle strength and functional status of the contralateral limb were reduced, even at 24 months after ACL reconstruction. However, both measurements improved significantly as the follow-up time progressed. In contrast, flexion muscle strength was restored to normal levels. Therefore, care should be taken to restore muscle strength and functional status in not only the ACL-reconstructed knee but also the uninjured limb.
Class in Czechia
Authors: Drahokoupil Jan
Published: October 2015

This essay discusses the use of class in Czech sociology. Czech social stratification research has used the concept of class as part of its standard vocabulary. The approach to class was distinctively shaped by postcommunist legacies. As an analytical concept, socio-economic status was preferred over class, particularly in the 1990s. The middle class played a prominent role as a subject of research and also a rallying cry. An important legacy that shaped the approach was the intellectual formation of Czech sociologists through the critique of the social stratification system in state socialism. This specific form of anticommunism shaped the type of questions typically asked in the stratification research and its subject matter. Moreover, the anticommunist legacy shaped interpretations of the broader implications of the stratification mechanisms and class effects, giving rise to an overly functionalist approach to the class system.
Class Analysis in Conditions of a Dual-Stratification Order
Authors: Zarycki Tomasz
Published: October 2015

This article presents a critique of classic applications of class analysis to Polish society. It argues from a Bourdieusian standpoint that class is subordinate to culture in shaping social relations in Poland. More specifically, Poland can be seen as a dual-stratification order, with the economic logic of class clashing continually with the logic of rank, which is defined in terms of cultural capital. These two models of logics appear to be in constant competition, which may also be related to the tension between economic and cultural elites. The latter is most clearly represented by the old intelligentsia, which is the only faction of the elite able to reproduce itself successfully and impose its logic of stratification and ideology on the entire society. The article also argues that class and rank logic can be seen as two dimensions of a social structure that are much more autonomous than in a typical western society. Within these two dimensions, there is a constant competition between different modes of framing and regulating respective hierarchies. In this internal competition of hierarchies, rank and class use each other to reinforce particular arguments. A sound class analysis must recognize these tensions and seek to reconstruct the process of confrontation between particular modes of logic and their internal visions, rather than arbitrarily embracing one form of logic as the privileged one.
Rediscovering Inequality and Class Analysis in Post-1989 Slovakia
Authors: Fabo Brian
Published: October 2015

The onset of the Velvet Revolution in 1989 led to a radical transformation of the social structure and new types of economic inequalities in Slovakia, but the media, academia, and civil society initially rejected any talk of these developments in terms of class, seeing the topic as potentially toxic to democracy. There was a tendency to veer away from the study of new social stratification toward research on postmaterialist topics such as environmental protection, civil rights, and alternative subcultures. Those social scientists who did study the changing social structure mostly analyzed statistical data without linking this to a broader theoretical framework. Social classes came to be discussed in gradational rather than relational terms, without discussion of how one group’s new privileges comes at the expense of others. In the early 2000s, radical neoliberal thinking became prominent, leading to the pervasive presentation of the poor and working poor as themselves responsible for their own fate. A backlash against that led to the triumph of the SMER party in 2006, which allowed topics such as poverty and social justice to return to everyday political discourse, and in this sense allowed for the return of class into politics. A younger generation of Slovak social scientists now regularly criticize the cult of the market and argue for an alternative political economy, though ongoing neoliberal hegemony in public discourse continues to make it hard for these new voices to be heard.
Class after Communism
Authors: Ost David
Published: October 2015

After 1989, class appeared to be everywhere and nowhere. The messy consequences of the emergence of new classes and new types of economic inequalities were plain for all to see, but no one uttered the term “class.” The concept appeared illegitimate because of associations with the old regime, even though it always had more success explaining developments in the capitalist world east Europe was entering than the state socialist world it was leaving. The media and academy adopted a discourse of “normality” instead: New rules resulted not from policy choices empowering certain groups at the expense of others but from necessity, and people just had to adapt. Because the economic collapse nevertheless elicited much anger and frustration, the absence of class talk contributed to a proliferation of nationalist talk, and thus had political consequences. The paper rehearses reasons for the decline of class analysis in the region, and notes the post-1989 fascination with the “middle class.” It explores the evolution of class analysis during the communist period, culminating in the embrace of a stratification theory that resisted discussion of power, which made sense at the time but became a burden after 1989. Several critical class analyses of state socialism, from the 1930s to today, are then introduced, demonstrating both their relevance and their unfortunate absence from debates. New types of class analyses promoted by younger scholars and activists are emerging, however, and are discussed in the summaries of the other essays in this collection.
Out of work? Volunteers Have Higher Odds of Getting Back to Work
Authors: Spera Christopher , Ghertner Robin , Nerino Anthony , DiTommaso Adrienne
Published: October 2015

Volunteering has often been cited as a potential pathway for economic opportunity for the out of work to increase their job prospects, but little empirical research has been conducted on the topic. Using a nationally representative data set of 70,535 unemployed persons across a 10-year period (2002-2012) from the U.S. Current Population Survey, we found that when out of work in Year 1, those who volunteered had a 27% higher likelihood of being employed in Year 2, compared with those who did not volunteer. The relationship between volunteering and employment was strongest for individuals without a high school diploma and persons living in rural areas, where the increased likelihood of being employed in Year 2 for volunteers was 51% and 55%, respectively. We found that the relationship between volunteering and employment is stable across gender, race and ethnic categories, age, time, metropolitan statistical area (MSA), and unemployment rate.
Stock Market Awareness among the Educated Youth: A Micro-level Study in India
Authors: Akhter Aabida , Sangmi Mohi-ud-Din
Published: October 2015

Stock market is known as a pulse of economy or economic mirror, which reflects the economic conditions of a country. Investors are believed to be the backbone of the securities market. Their education and awareness, therefore, hold the key to reviving and sustaining their interests in the securities market. Stock market awareness comes under the broader concept of financial literacy. This study is an attempt to assess the awareness of youth about various aspects of stock market including concepts, products, processes, institutions etc. The results of the study reveal that the sample youth possess low to moderate level of stock market knowledge and the awareness level is not significantly different among different sample groups based on the discipline they are studying.
Doctoral Journey of a Management Scholar: A Viewpoint
Authors: Mishra Pavitra
Published: October 2015

A doctoral journey involves exploration of unknown areas and new prospects. It provides a chance of rebirth and change, but also has a risk of uncertainty. This article is a reflection of my doctoral journey. It explains various stages of a doctoral journey. It also highlights some useful strategies and attitudes required for successful completion of this journey. The article aims to help young doctoral scholars in understanding important aspects of a doctoral research.
An Empirical Investigation of Relationship among Transformational Leadership, Affective Organizational Commitment and Contextual Performance
Authors: Pradhan Sajeet , Pradhan Rabindra Kumar
Published: October 2015

The current study examines the relationship between transformational leadership and the followers’ affective organizational commitment and their contextual performance. Transformational leaders through their compelling vision and moral guidance arrest their follower’s commitment and motivate them to exert more effort and engage them in extra-role behaviours which are not explicit part of their job description. The follower’s commitment and decision to stay in the organization are guided by an emotional bond with the leader and the organization rather than by any logical reasoning. The study also explores the effect of affective organizational commitment on contextual performance. An individual who is firmly committed towards the goals of the organization will look beyond his/her vested interests and will demonstrate more of discretionary prosocial behaviours. These positive desirable behaviours otherwise called contextual performance will add to the overall performance of the organization. This cross-sectional study includes a sample of 480 software professionals working in several information technology (IT) companies across India. SPSS 18 and AMOS 16 were used for data analysis and result interpretation. Results suggested a significant positive influence of transformational leadership on the follower’s affective organizational commitment and their contextual performance. Affective organizational commitment is also found to have positive linkage with the contextual performance of the followers. The results are consistent with previous findings which also claimed positive and significant linkage among the transformational leadership, affective organizational commitment and contextual performance.
Occupational Stress and Coping Styles among Doctors: Role of Demographic and Environment Variables
Authors: Rashid Irfana , Talib Parvaiz
Published: October 2015

Stress has been regarded as an occupational hazard since mid-1950s. In fact, occupational stress has been cited as a significant health problem among most of the occupational groups. Numerous studies have explored work stress among health care personnel in many countries. This study is an attempt to examine the nature and levels of role stress experienced by doctors in government hospitals across gender, experience, specialization and geographical areas in India. An attempt has also been made to explore the various coping styles adopted by doctors to deal with workplace stress.

The sample consists of 334 doctors working at the government hospitals. To attain the objectives of the study, psychometric instrument, Organizational Role Stress Scale (Pareek, 1983), and a semi-projective instrument, Role Pics (Pareek, Devi & Rosenzweig, 1968), were administered to the sample population to obtain data pertaining to role stress and coping styles. The findings of the study revealed that female doctors experience more stress than their male counterparts. On the basis of geographical areas, stress score for doctors in disturbed ambience is significantly higher than the doctors in peaceful ambience. In addition, there exists a difference in the nature and quantum of role stress among doctors belonging to various specializations and different experience groups.

The results on the basis of ‘Role Pics’ revealed that the majority of doctors employed defensive mode of coping (avoidance coping), followed by impersistive coping style (approach coping).
Geographic Variation in Mortality Among Children and Adolescents Diagnosed With Cancer in Tennessee
Authors: Lindley Lisa C. , Oyana Tonny J.
Published: October 2015

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death among children in the United States. Previous research has examined geographic variation in cancer incidence and survival, but the geographic variation in mortality among children and adolescents is not as well understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate geographic variation by race in mortality among children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer in Tennessee. Using an innovative combination of spatial and nonspatial analysis techniques with data from the 2004-2011 Tennessee Cancer Registry, pediatric deaths were mapped and the effect of race on the proximity to rural areas and clusters of mortality were explored with multivariate regressions. The findings revealed that African American children and adolescents in Tennessee were more likely than their counterparts of other races to reside in rural areas with close proximity to mortality clusters of children and adolescents with a cancer. Findings have clinical implications for pediatric oncology nurses regarding the delivery of supportive care at end of life for rural African American children and adolescents.
Evaluation of prognostic factors and survival rates in malignant feline mammary gland neoplasms
Authors: De Campos Cecilia B , Damasceno Karine A , Gamba Conrado O , Ribeiro Ana M , Machado Carla J , Lavalle Gleidice E , Cassali Geovanni D
Published: October 2015

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate prognostic factors in feline mammary gland neoplasms, correlating them with overall survival (OS).

Methods

Fifty-six primary malignant mammary gland neoplasms and 16 metastatic lymph nodes from 37 female cats were analyzed. Clinical staging, histologic type and grade, and immunohistochemistry for Ki-67, progesterone and estrogen receptor, human epidermal growth factor receptor type 2 (HER-2), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were evaluated. Follow-up was performed in order to correlate prognostic factors with OS.

Results

Lymph node metastasis was found in 35% of cases. Clinical stage III, tubulopapillary carcinomas and histologic grade II cases prevailed in the study. Most neoplasms were positive for hormonal receptors, negative for HER-2 overexpression and presented VEGF overexpression. Immunoreactivity for Ki-67 ( P = 0.046) and COX-2 ( P = 0.007) was higher in metastases than in primary tumors. COX-2 ( P = 0.089), HER-2 ( P = 0.012) and histologic grade ( P = 0.080) were correlated with OS.

Conclusions and relevance

The data suggest that inhibition of ovarian hormones and COX-2 may represent a therapeutic option for malignant feline mammary gland neoplasms. When evaluating disease progression, COX-2 scores and Ki-67 index should be analyzed in primary tumors and metastases. Histologic grade, HER-2 status and COX-2 scores were found to have a direct influence on OS. Prognostic factors allow for a better understanding of disease outcome in a condition that is characterized by a poor prognosis. The present work highlights the need for further studies on endocrine therapy and COX-2 inhibitors, which could influence OS.
Evaluation of cranial tibial and extensor carpi radialis reflexes before and after anesthetic block in cats
Authors: Tudury Eduardo Alberto , de Figueiredo Marcella Luiz , Fernandes Thaiza Helena Tavares , Araújo Bruno Martins , Bonelli Marília de Albuquerque , Diogo Camila Cardoso , Silva Amanda Camilo , Santos Cássia Regina Oliveira , Rocha Nadyne Lorrayne Farias Cardoso
Published: October 2015

Objectives

This study aimed to test the extensor carpi radialis and cranial tibial reflexes in cats before and after anesthetic block of the brachial and lumbosacral plexus, respectively, to determine whether they depend on a myotatic reflex arc.

Methods

Fifty-five cats with a normal neurologic examination that were referred for elective gonadectomy were divided into group 1 (29 cats) for testing the extensor carpi radialis reflex, and group 2 (26 cats) for testing the cranial tibial reflex. In group 1, the extensor carpi radialis reflex was tested after anesthetic induction and 15 mins after brachial plexus block with lidocaine. In group 2, the cranial tibial, withdrawal and patellar reflexes were elicited in 52 hindlimbs and retested 15 mins after epidural anesthesia.

Results

In group 1, before the anesthetic block, 55.17% of the cats had a decreased and 44.83% had a normal extensor carpi radialis reflex. After the block, 68.96% showed a decreased and 27.59% a normal reflex. No cat had an increased or absent reflex before anesthetic block. In group 2, prior to the anesthetic block, 15.38% of the cats had a decreased cranial tibial reflex and 84.62% had a normal response, whereas after the block it was decreased in 26.92% and normal in 73.08% of the cats. None of the cats had an increased or absent reflex. Regarding the presence of both reflexes before and after anesthetic block, there was no significant difference at 1% ( P = 0.013).

Conclusions and relevance

The extensor carpi radialis and cranial tibial reflexes in cats are not strictly myotatic reflexes, as they are independent of the reflex arc, and may be idiomuscular responses. Therefore, they are not reliable for neurologic examination in this species.
Optimal design of an aerostatic spindle based on fluid–structure interaction method and its verification
Authors: Lu Lihua , Chen Wanqun , Wu Bin , Gao Qiang , Wu Quanhui
Published: October 2015

The aerostatic spindle is made up of the structure components and the fluid film. The interaction between them has important influence on the comprehensive performance of the spindle. This paper presents a new design method of aerostatic spindle based on the fluid–structure interaction method. The changes of bearing clearance caused by the structure deformation under high-pressure fluid film are considered, and the static performances of the bearing are obtained. In order to improve the performance of the spindle, the structural parameters of the bearing are optimized. The proposed design method is implemented through a self-developed aerostatic spindle.
Smoking is a major preventable risk factor for multiple sclerosis
Authors: Hedström AK , Olsson T , Alfredsson L
Published: October 2015

Background:

Both smoking and exposure to passive smoking have repeatedly been associated with increased multiple sclerosis (MS) risk, but have never before been studied together. We assessed the public health impact of these factors.

Methods:

In a Swedish population-based case-control study (2455 cases, 5336 controls), we calculated odds ratios of developing MS associated with different categories of tobacco smoke exposure, together with 95% confidence intervals, by using logistic regression. The excess proportion of cases attributable to smoking and passive smoking was calculated as a percentage.

Results:

Both smoking and exposure to passive smoking contribute to MS risk in a dose-dependent manner. At the population level, 20.4% of all cases were attributable to smoke exposure. Among subjects carrying the genetic risk factor HLA-DRB1*15 but lacking HLA-A*02, 41% of the MS cases were attributable to smoking.

Conclusions:

From a public health perspective, the impact of smoking and passive smoking on MS risk is considerable. Preventive measures in order to reduce tobacco smoke exposure are, therefore, essential. In particular, individuals with a history of MS in the family should be informed regarding the impact of smoking on the risk of MS, and the importance of preventing their children from being exposed to passive smoke.
Commemorating home: Art as place making, an artist’s narration
Authors: Shanaathanan Thamotharampillai
Published: October 2015

The damage caused by 26 years of armed conflict in its various forms on the social fabric of the Sri Lankan Tamil community has led to the loss of place, as well as displacement for many, compelling individuals to live with traumatic and fragile memories of home. This visual essay foregrounds the changing role of the author’s own artistic practice conceived both as eye witness and facilitator in this context. The essay also explores how anthropological tools and museum techniques are employed to draw audiences into the aesthetics of individual pain connected to experiences of loss and displacement in conflict situations.
The passion of mediated shame: Affective reactivity and classed otherness in reality TV
Authors: Hirdman Anja
Published: October 2015

The article examines how mediated shame in the reality show The Luxury Trap where individuals with huge debts are being scolded for ‘their lack of economic self-control’ presents a specific kind of information about class played out as intensities, encounters and experience. Drawing on studies on affective reactivity, it extends the argument of reality TV as a site for classed otherness by examining how discordant affects, such as, non-empathic reactions to others’ emotional experiences, are formed, as well as transformed on the show. The shaming process evolves through different transitory phases: the inducing, internalization and (temporarily) reduction in shame. These sequential phases disclose the reliance on the passionate aspects of shame, that is, participants’ desire to re-enter into the common by freeing oneself from that which carries the mark for exclusion. They also provide the premise for the repetitive power of affect operation intrinsically linking class and shame together, giving body and form to the un-named, to that which drive us towards affective judgements and to the un-making of subjects. This article is part of a themed issue entitled ‘Passion’.
A Systematic Review of Posttraumatic Growth in Survivors of Interpersonal Violence in Adulthood
Authors: Elderton Anna , Berry Alexis , Chan Carmen
Published: October 2015

This review critically evaluates the literature on posttraumatic growth in survivors of interpersonal violence, integrating the findings from 12 quantitative and 4 qualitative studies. The following databases were searched using predetermined terms: AMED, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, BNI, CINAHL, and Web of Knowledge. The review’s findings suggest that the mean prevalence of growth in interpersonal violence survivors is around 71% (range 58–99%). The highest level of growth was consistently experienced in the “appreciation of life” domain. However, survivors reported growth in the four remaining domains: “personal strength,” “new possibilities,” “experience of relationships with others,” and “outlook on life.” The nature of the relationship between growth and distress was inconsistent across studies. A combination of pretrauma, peritrauma, and posttrauma variables were found to be related to the degree of growth survivors experienced. Methodological weaknesses of the quantitative studies included the predominant use of retrospective, cross-sectional, correlational designs, discrepancy in the measurement of growth, insufficient sample sizes for power calculations in five studies and limited external validity. Qualitative findings were limited by sampling methods, insufficient information about interview schedules, the lack of credibility checks, and evidence of reflexivity demonstrated by some studies. Implications for practice, policy, and future research are discussed.
Improving Spiritual Well-Being in Patients with Lung Cancers
Authors: Piderman Katherine M. , Sytsma Terin T. , Frost Marlene H. , Novotny Paul J. , Rausch Osian Sarah M. , Solberg Nes Lise , Patten Christi A. , Sloan Jeff A. , Rummans Teresa A. , Bronars Carrie A. , Yang Ping , Clark Matthew M.
Published: October 2015

Patients with lung cancer report more disease burden and lower spiritual well-being (SWB) compared with other cancer patients. Understanding variables that lessen disease burden and improve SWB is essential. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between motivational level for physical activity and SWB in patients with lung cancer. Linear regression showed increased SWB as stage of change for physical activity increased (p < 0.0001), even after adjusting for multiple demographic variables.
University–community engagement: Case study of university social responsibility
Authors: Chile Love M , Black Xavier M
Published: October 2015

Corporatisation of universities has drawn parallels between contemporary universities and business corporations, and extended analysis of corporate social responsibility to universities. This article reports on case study of university–community engagement with schools and school communities through youth engagement programmes to enhance democratic principles in student leadership and raise aspirations for university education for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Data from over 1200 respondents suggest that university–community engagement produced positive outcomes for individual student participants, schools and school communities and also benefited the university in terms of brand recognition and good standing in the community. This raises questions about the social responsibility of universities as agents of change to entrench society’s fundamental values of democratic participation and social justice.
Assessment of Bone Marrow Aspiration Site Pain in Foot and Ankle Surgery
Authors: Daigre Justin L. , DeMill Shyler L. , Hyer Christopher F.
Published: October 2015

Bone marrow aspiration (BMA) is a validated technique to harvest progenitor cells. BMA has many uses in foot and ankle surgery; however, donor site morbidity is a concern. The purpose of this study was to compare the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain scores after BMA at 3 different sites (iliac crest, distal tibia, and calcaneus) over a 12-week postoperative recovery period. This was an institutional review board–approved prospective study of 40 patients who underwent BMA as an adjunct to their primary foot and ankle procedure. Each patient had BMA harvested from the ipsilateral anterior iliac crest, distal tibia, and lateral calcaneus at the time of surgery. Patient follow-up questionnaire forms were filled out at 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks, with the primary outcome measure being VAS pain scores. Mean VAS scores averaged over the 12-week follow-up period were significantly higher in the calcaneus (20.8 ± 28.6) compared with the distal tibia (7.7 ± 17.6) and the iliac crest (4.2 ± 12.4; P < .05). No significant difference was found between the distal tibia and the iliac crest sites. At 12 weeks, all sites were about equal and without appreciable pain. Our data suggested that donor site selection for BMA affects postoperative pain levels, with BMA from the calcaneus resulting in significantly higher pain scores when compared with the iliac crest or distal tibia. The VAS pain score for the calcaneus was likely confounded by the high number of hindfoot/ankle surgeries performed in the ipsilateral foot.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level II: Prospective, comparative trial
Knee Articular Cartilage Repair and Restoration Techniques
Authors: Richter Dustin L. , Schenck Robert C. , Wascher Daniel C. , Treme Gehron
Published: October 2015

Context:

Isolated chondral and osteochondral defects of the knee are a difficult clinical challenge, particularly in younger patients for whom alternatives such as partial or total knee arthroplasty are rarely advised. Numerous surgical techniques have been developed to address focal cartilage defects. Cartilage treatment strategies are characterized as palliation (eg, chondroplasty and debridement), repair (eg, drilling and microfracture [MF]), or restoration (eg, autologous chondrocyte implantation [ACI], osteochondral autograft [OAT], and osteochondral allograft [OCA]).

Evidence Acquisition:

PubMed was searched for treatment articles using the keywords knee, articular cartilage, and osteochondral defect, with a focus on articles published in the past 5 years.

Study Design:

Clinical review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Results:

In general, smaller lesions (<2 cm2) are best treated with MF or OAT. Furthermore, OAT shows trends toward greater longevity and durability as well as improved outcomes in high-demand patients. Intermediate-size lesions (2-4 cm2) have shown fairly equivalent treatment results using either OAT or ACI options. For larger lesions (>4 cm2), ACI or OCA have shown the best results, with OCA being an option for large osteochondritis dissecans lesions and posttraumatic defects.

Conclusion:

These techniques may improve patient outcomes, though no single technique can reproduce normal hyaline cartilage.
Bilateral persistent fetal vasculature due to a mutation in the Norrie disease protein gene
Authors: Payabvash Seyedmehdi , Anderson Jill S , Nascene David R
Published: October 2015

We report a case of a 7-week-old boy with bilateral leukocoria and asymmetric microphthalmia who was found to have Norrie disease. Symmetrically hyperdense globes with no evidence of calcification were seen on CT scan. The MRI showed bilateral retinal hemorrhages resulting in conical vitreous chambers—narrow at the optic disc and widened toward the lens—characteristic of persistent fetal vasculature. Genetic evaluation revealed a previously undescribed mutation in the Norrie disease protein gene.
Depression Screening in Chronic Disease Management
Authors: Jensen Elizabeth , Dumas Bonnie P. , Edlund Barbara J.
Published: October 2015

This pilot project aimed to improve depression symptoms and quality-of-life measures for individuals in a worksite disease management program. Two hundred forty-three individuals were invited to participate, out of which 69 enrolled. The participants had a history of diabetes, hypertension, or hyperlipidemia, and demonstrated depression using the Patient Health Questionnaire–9 (PHQ-9). The project consisted of counseling sessions provided every 2 to 4 weeks by a family nurse practitioner. PHQ-9 scores and those of an instrument that measures quality of life, the Veteran’s Rand–12 (VR-12), were compared pre-intervention and post-intervention to evaluate the effectiveness of the project. PHQ-9 and VR-12 Mental Health Component (MHC) scores improved significantly after 3 months of nurse practitioner-led individual counseling sessions. This project demonstrated that depression screening and therapeutic management, facilitated by a nurse practitioner, can improve depression and perceived quality of life in individuals with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or type 2 diabetes.
Identification of a new subclass of ALK-negative ALCL expressing aberrant levels of ERBB4 transcripts
Authors: Scarfò Irene , Pellegrino Elisa , Mereu Elisabetta , Kwee Ivo , Agnelli Luca , Bergaggio Elisa , Garaffo Giulia , Vitale Nicoletta , Caputo Manuel , Machiorlatti Rodolfo , Circosta Paola , Abate Francesco , Barreca Antonella , Novero Domenico , Mathew Susan , Rinaldi Andrea , Tiacci Enrico , Serra Sara , Deaglio Silvia , Neri Antonino , Falini Brunangelo , Rabadan Raul , Bertoni Francesco , Inghirami Giorgio , Piva Roberto ,   the European T-Cell Lymphoma Study Group
Published: October 2015

Key Points

Endogenous intronic long terminal repeats promote the ectopic expression of truncated ERBB4 transcripts in 24% of ALK-negative ALCL. The expression of ERBB4-aberrant transcripts defines a new subclass of ALK-negative ALCL and may contribute to ALCL transformation.
Transient, Activity Dependent Inhibition of Transmitter Release from Low Threshold Afferents Mediated by GABAA Receptors in Spinal Cord Lamina III/IV
Authors: Betelli Chiara , MacDermott Amy B. , Bardoni Rita
Published: October 2015

Background

Presynaptic GABAA receptors (GABAARs) located on central terminals of low threshold afferent fibers are thought to be involved in the processing of touch and possibly in the generation of tactile allodynia in chronic pain. These GABAARs mediate primary afferent depolarization (PAD) and modulate transmitter release. The objective of this study was to expand our understanding of the presynaptic inhibitory action of GABA released onto primary afferent central terminals following afferent stimulation.

Results

We recorded evoked postsynaptic excitatory responses (eEPSCs and eEPSPs) from lamina III/IV neurons in spinal cord slices from juvenile rats (P17–P23, either sex), while stimulating dorsal roots. We investigated time and activity dependent changes in glutamate release from low threshold A fibers and the impact of these changes on excitatory drive. Blockade of GABAARs by gabazine potentiated the second eEPSC during a train of four afferent stimuli in a large subset of synapses. This resulted in a corresponding increase of action potential firing after the second stimulus. The potentiating effect of gabazine was due to inhibition of endogenously activated presynaptic GABAARs, because it was not prevented by the blockade of postsynaptic GABAARs through intracellular perfusion of CsF. Exogenous activation of presynaptic GABAARs by muscimol depressed evoked glutamate release at all synapses and increased paired pulse ratio (PPR).

Conclusions

These observations suggest that afferent driven release of GABA onto low threshold afferent terminals is most effective following the first action potential in a train and serves to suppress the initial strong excitatory drive onto dorsal horn circuitry.