bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homeland engagement and host-society integration: A comparative study of new Chinese immigrants in the United States and Singapore
Authors: Zhou Min , Liu Hong
Published: March 2016

This article addresses three main questions through a comparative study of new Chinese immigrants in the United States and Singapore: (1) How do contexts of emigration and reception affect the ways in which new immigrants are tied to their homeland? (2) How do diasporic communities help members engage with the homeland? (3) What effects does transnationalism have on host-society integration? We develop an institutional approach to analyze how the state is involved in the transnational fields and how diasporic organizations serve as a bridge between individual migrants and state actors in transnational practices and integration processes. We find that new Chinese immigrants maintain emotional and tangible ties with China even as they are oriented toward resettlement in the hostland and that their transnational practices are similar in form but vary in magnitude, depending not only on diasporic positionality in the host society but also on bi-national relations. We also find that those who actively engage themselves in the transnational fields tend to do so through diasporic organizations. Finally, we find that homeland engagement generally benefits integration into host societies. These findings suggest that social forces at the macro-level – the nation-state – and at the meso-level – diasporic communities – are intertwined to affect processes and outcomes of immigrant transnationalism.
Language, Culture, and Group Membership
Authors: Kidd Evan , Kemp Nenagh , Kashima Emiko S. , Quinn Sara
Published: March 2016

Languages are strong markers of social identity. Multiple features of language and speech, from accent to lexis to grammatical constructions, mark speakers as members of specific cultural groups. In the current article, we present two confederate-scripted studies that investigated the social effects of the Australian hypocoristic use (e.g., uggie, uni, derro)—a lexical category emblematic of Australian culture. Participants took turns with a confederate directing each other through locations on a map. In their directions, the confederate used either hypocoristic (e.g., uni) or standard forms (e.g., university). The confederate’s cultural group membership and member prototypicality were manipulated by ethnic background and accent: In a highly prototypical in-group condition, the confederate had an Anglo-Celtic background and Australian English (AusE) accent; in a low prototypical in-group condition, the confederate had an Asian background and AusE accent; and in the out-group condition, the confederate had an Asian background and non-AusE accent. Hypocoristic use resulted in significantly higher participant-rated perceived common ground with the confederate when the confederate was an in-group but not an out-group member, which in some instances was moderated by in-group identification. The results suggest that like accents, culturally significant lexical categories function as markers of in-group identity, which influence perceived social closeness during interaction.
Dangerous liaisons
Authors: Chyzh Olga
Published: March 2016

This article applies recent advances in network analysis to highlight a central tension faced by policymakers – balancing the benefits of engaging with the international system and the associated domestic policy costs. International trade rewards certain domestic practices, such as respect for human rights. Enforcing such practices, however, is politically costly and sometimes prohibitive to state leaders who rely on political repression to stay in power. In such cases, domestic elites often resort to an alternative strategy of securing the benefits of international trade – setting up indirect trade channels through intermediary states. These competing incentives are modeled within a single framework using a formal network game in which states form trade-links (direct or indirect) with other states, while simultaneously choosing their optimal level of domestic human rights protections. The model suggests that there may be an inverse relationship between a state’s embeddedness within a network of indirect trade and respect for human rights: indirect trade channels serve as loopholes that allow domestically troubled states to enjoy the benefits of trade without pressure for domestic improvement. The predictions are supported by the results of the empirical analyses of the international trade and repression data (1987–2000), conducted using a coevolutionary actor-oriented longitudinal-network model – a statistical estimator that closely mimics the theoretical model.
The complex structure of commercial peace contrasting trade interdependence, asymmetry, and multipolarity
Authors: Gartzke Erik , Westerwinter Oliver
Published: March 2016

Researchers continue to debate the impact of trade on interstate conflict. While many view trade as pacifying, others argue that dependencies increase friction and the risk of war. We provide a theory that explains how cross-border economic ties alternately enhance or impede international cooperation. Three main factors account for the heterogeneous effects of trade on conflict: interdependence, asymmetry, and multipolarity. Interdependence can act as a substitute for, or as a deterrent to, militarized violence. In the former case, interdependence actually increases more modest non-militarized conflict, while also discouraging militarized disputes. Asymmetry diminishes the conflict-inhibiting effect of trade ties, as dependency cannot simultaneously be used to coerce and to inform. Multilateral trade networks alternately moderate or enhance the bilateral effects of interdependence and asymmetry on interstate peace. Our theory and evidence reveal complex, cross-cutting consequences of economic interdependence on conflict behavior and also demonstrate effects well beyond the dyad, suggesting the need to include extradyadic ties in future theoretical and empirical research studying the commercial peace.
Man Thou Art Dust: Rites of Passage in Austere Times
Authors: O’Loughlin Deirdre M , Szmigin Isabelle , McEachern Morven G , Barbosa Belem , Karantinou Kalipso , Fernández-Moya María Eugenia
Published: March 2016

In response to recent calls for further cross-disciplinary research on austerity and a deeper sociological understanding of the impact and aftermath of the economic crisis on individuals and societies, this article builds on extant austerity literature through an exploration of its effects on European men. Informed by theories of liminality and rites of passage, this qualitative investigation examines the experience of austerity from the perspective of 11 men through the three liminal stages of separation, transition and reaggregation and investigates its impact on their identity, responsibilities and expectations. Our findings reveal the negative experiences of alienation and outsiderhood alongside positive experiences of communitas, solidarity and comradeship. The study provides a nuanced understanding of modern male Europeans and their ‘rites of passage’ through austere times.
Ecologies of Collective Parent Engagement in Urban Education
Authors: Alameda-Lawson Tania , Lawson Michael A.
Published: March 2016

For the past several decades, the construct of parent involvement (PI) has framed much of the literature on school–family–community partnerships. In this study, the authors used a qualitative form of meta-analysis called thematic synthesis to explore a programmatic alternative to conventional PI known as collective parent engagement (CPE). The CPE approach examined in this study was implemented in three low-income, urban school communities. The primary goal was to help low-income parents develop programs and services that could support the strengths, needs, and challenges of children and families at school and in the community. The findings indicated that, when implemented as an isolated or “stand-alone” service strategy, CPE generally does not influence school outcomes. But when tied to a broader system of reform efforts, CPE can help transform the social-institutional landscape of low-income, urban school communities.
The Ghastly Kitchen
Authors: Guerrini Anita
Published: March 2016

The metaphor of “the ghastly kitchen” of life science research, the places that, said the nineteenth-century physiologist Claude Bernard, stirred “the fetid and throbbing ground of life,” is well known. In the seventeenth century, the kitchen, and particularly the scullery, was the site of the slaughter, butchery, and dismemberment by carving of a variety of animals. The tools and techniques employed in these activities overlapped considerably with those of animal and human dissection. Dissection often took place in residences and the kitchen was the most likely place for this activity. This challenges historians’ identification of the kitchen as an exclusively female realm. The preparation of food and medicines occurred in tandem with experimental natural philosophy, sharing tools as well as the sensory apparatus of cooking, including tasting and smelling.
Encountering “Triggers”
Authors: Dennis Fay
Published: March 2016

Drawing primarily on interviews conducted in London with people who inject drugs, this article looks at participants’ accounts of encountering “triggers,” variously described as material things, spaces, people, situations, and memories. This article argues that instead of understanding triggers or “cue-induced cravings” in terms of a separation between objects and subjects, the former triggering the latter, they suggest a relational “becoming” that, if taken seriously, can influence a more open approach to drug use and reducing drug-related harm. Triggers are a key area of interest for neurological models of addiction, particularly in light of neuroimaging technologies that claim to visualize the phenomenon, but in sociological studies of alcohol and other drugs, they are seldom explored. This can be linked to a historical interest in the decision-making individual. However, in rethinking triggers in terms of “the event”, and the body as something we do, neither subject/object nor body/world pre-exist each other. Therefore, triggers, as emphasized by the participants in this study, become a way of shining light on some of the complex relationships people have with drugs that go beyond rationality and reason, without reducing such practices to irrationality or loss of self-control.
The Role of Protective Factors and the Relationship With Recidivism for High-Risk Young People in Detention
Authors: Shepherd Stephane M. , Luebbers Stefan , Ogloff James R. P.
Published: March 2016

This study sought to ascertain the prevalence of protective factors and association with client risk level and future offending in a sample of 177 Australian youth in detention. The Protective Domain on the Structured Assessment of Violence Risk in Youth (SAVRY) instrument was utilized to identify protective items in the cohort. The mean number of protective factors for the entire sample was low (under two) with higher risk clients averaging less than one current protective item. Although the number of protective factors engendered criminal desistance, this effect did not extend to the highest risk young offenders. Clients who re-offended were significantly less likely to present with five out of the six SAVRY protective items. In addition, pro-social involvement and school engagement had the strongest associations with non re-offense. Clinical implications for client risk management are discussed.
Team-Based Learning Improves Course Outcomes in Introductory Psychology
Authors: Travis Lisa L. , Hudson Nathan W. , Henricks-Lepp Genevieve M. , Street Whitney S. , Weidenbenner Jennifer
Published: March 2016

This study investigated the influence of team-based learning (TBL) methods on exam performance and student satisfaction in an introductory psychology class. Fifteen instructors teaching 29 sections (with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,130 students) were randomly assigned to use TBL for 7 of 12 major topics or to use lecture. All students took the same midterm and final exams and completed midsemester and end-of-semester satisfaction surveys. Multilevel logistic models revealed that across both exams, students in the TBL sections performed significantly better on items that tested content covered in the TBL modules. In terms of the overall course satisfaction, there was no difference between the students taught via TBL versus lecture. These findings suggest that TBL is more effective than lecture in contributing to learning among introductory psychology students—without negatively impacting course satisfaction.
Using Data Mining to Teach Applied Statistics and Correlation
Authors: Hartnett Jessica L.
Published: March 2016

This article describes two class activities that introduce the concept of data mining and very basic data mining analyses. Assessment data suggest that students learned some of the conceptual basics of data mining, understood some of the ethical concerns related to the practice, and were able to perform correlations via the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, Version 20).
Using Content Acquisition Podcasts to Increase Student Knowledge and to Reduce Perceived Cognitive Load
Authors: Kennedy Michael J. , Hirsch Shanna Eisner , Dillon Sarah E. , Rabideaux Lindsey , Alves Kathryn D. , Driver Melissa K.
Published: March 2016

The use of multimedia-driven instruction in college courses is an emerging practice designed to increase students’ knowledge. However, limited research has validated the effectiveness of using multimedia to teach students about functional behavioral assessments (FBAs). To test the effectiveness of a multimedia tool called Content Acquisition Podcasts (CAPs), this study utilized a pretest–posttest design across two groups of students. One group received instruction on FBAs in the form of a CAP, whereas the other group received a typical lecture (control comparison). Results revealed that members of the CAP group performed better on the posttest compared to the students who received the lecture when the pretest scores were controlled for previous knowledge. In addition, students in the CAP group had lower self-reported levels of cognitive load. Implications for the use of CAPs and future research are discussed.
The Seams and Summaries of Luke and of Acts
Authors: Mealand David L.
Published: March 2016

Differences of style between the seams and summaries of Luke and those of Acts have been detected by Patricia Walters (2009). Using the same method (chi-square), but different criteria, still shows significant differences. Dividing her samples and re-testing them reaches very similar results. A third test, this time multivariate (using 30 criteria and including more of Luke and Acts), again shows up a noticeable divergence between the two sets of seams and summaries. A fourth test adds samples from Mark, Dionysius and others. The primary contrast places Mark well to the left and Dionysius well to the right. Samples from Luke are nearer Mark, those of Acts nearer Dionysius. The seams and summaries of Luke are again noticeably distant from those of Acts, the latter being very near to samples from Dionysius. These results support the case made by Walters for serious divergence between these presumably more editorial sections of Luke and Acts.
Motivated Implicit Theories of Personality
Authors: Steimer Andreas , Mata André
Published: March 2016

Across six studies, this research found consistent evidence for motivated implicit theories about personality malleability: People perceive their weaknesses as more malleable than their strengths. Moreover, motivation also influences how people see themselves in the future, such that they expect their present strengths to remain constant, but they expect their present weaknesses to improve in the future. Several additional findings suggest the motivational nature of these effects: The difference in perceived malleability for strengths versus weaknesses was only observed for the self, not for other people. When the desirability of possessing a certain trait was manipulated, that trait was perceived to be more malleable when it was depicted as undesirable. And these different beliefs that people have about how malleable their traits are, and how they will develop in the future, were associated with their desire for change, which is higher for weaknesses versus strengths.
Social-Class Differences in Consumer Choices
Authors: Na Jinkyung , McDonough Ian M. , Chan Micaela Y. , Park Denise C.
Published: March 2016

The present research shows that, when making choices, working-class Americans are more affected by others’ opinions than middle-class Americans due to differences in independent versus interdependent self-construal. Experiment 1 revealed that when working-class Americans made decisions to buy products, they were more influenced by the choices of others than middle-class Americans. In contrast, middle-class Americans were more likely to misremember others’ choices to be consistent with their own choices. In other words, working-class Americans adjusted their choices to the preference of others, whereas middle-class Americans distorted others’ preferences to fit their choices. Supporting our prediction that this social-class effect is closely linked to the independent versus interdependent self-construal, we showed that the differences in self-construal across cultures qualified the social-class effects on choices (Experiment 2). Moreover, when we experimentally manipulated self-construal in Experiment 3, we found that it mediated the corresponding changes in choices regardless of social class.
Should Spouses Be Demanding Less From Marriage? A Contextual Perspective on the Implications of Interpersonal Standards
Authors: McNulty James K.
Published: March 2016

How much should people ask of their relationships? Whereas several perspectives suggest high standards should make actual outcomes feel worse by comparison and thus harm relationships, other perspectives suggest high standards should motivate people to exert the effort necessary to cultivate quality partnerships. The current 4-year longitudinal study of newlywed couples reconciled these competing perspectives by testing a prediction implicit in Finkel, Hui, Carswell, and Larson’s suffocation model of marriage—that spouses’ standards interact with factors reflective of their abilities to meet those standards to predict subsequent satisfaction. Among spouses who either reported less severe problems or were in marriages observed to be characterized by lower levels of destructive behavior, standards were positively associated with satisfaction over time; among spouses who reported more severe problems or were in marriages characterized by higher levels of destructive behavior, in contrast, standards were negatively associated with satisfaction over time.
Explaining Self and Vicarious Reactance
Authors: Sittenthaler Sandra , Jonas Eva , Traut-Mattausch Eva
Published: March 2016

Research shows that people experience a motivational state of agitation known as reactance when they perceive restrictions to their freedoms. However, research has yet to show whether people experience reactance if they merely observe the restriction of another person’s freedom. In Study 1, we activated realistic vicarious reactance in the laboratory. In Study 2, we compared people’s responses with their own and others’ restrictions and found the same levels of experienced reactance and behavioral intentions as well as aggressive tendencies. We did, however, find differences in physiological arousal: Physiological arousal increased quickly after participants imagined their own freedom being restricted, but arousal in response to imagining a friend’s freedom being threatened was weaker and delayed. In line with the physiological data, Study 3’s results showed that self-restrictions aroused more emotional thoughts than vicarious restrictions, which induced more cognitive responses. Furthermore, in Study 4a, a cognitive task affected only the cognitive process behind vicarious reactance. In contrast, in Study 4b, an emotional task affected self-reactance but not vicarious reactance. We propose a process model explaining the emotional and cognitive processes of self- and vicarious reactance.
To Have Control Over or to Be Free From Others? The Desire for Power Reflects a Need for Autonomy
Authors: Lammers Joris , Stoker Janka I. , Rink Floor , Galinsky Adam D.
Published: March 2016

The current research explores why people desire power and how that desire can be satisfied. We propose that a position of power can be subjectively experienced as conferring influence over others or as offering autonomy from the influence of others. Conversely, a low-power position can be experienced as lacking influence or lacking autonomy. Nine studies show that subjectively experiencing one’s power as autonomy predicts the desire for power, whereas the experience of influence over others does not. Furthermore, gaining autonomy quenches the desire for power, but gaining influence does not. The studies demonstrated the primacy of autonomy across both experimental and correlational designs, across measured mediation and manipulated mediator approaches, and across three different continents (Europe, United States, India). Together, these studies offer evidence that people desire power not to be a master over others, but to be master of their own domain, to control their own fate.
The Rural–Urban Difference in Interpersonal Regret
Authors: Komiya Asuka , Oishi Shigehiro , Lee Minha
Published: March 2016

The present research examined rural–urban differences in interpersonal regret. In Study 1, participants who grew up in rural areas reported stronger interpersonal regret than those who grew up in large cities. In Study 2, we conducted an experiment and found that participants who were assigned to imagine a rural life reported greater interpersonal regret than those who were assigned to imagine an urban life. Moreover, this rural–urban difference was mediated by the degree to which participants wrote about informal social control such as gossip and reputation concerns. Finally, in Study 3, we used the pictorial eye manipulation, which evokes a concern for informal social control, and found that participants from large cities who were exposed to the eyes reported more intense interpersonal regret than those who were not exposed to the eyes. Together, these studies demonstrate that informal social control is a key to understanding rural–urban differences in interpersonal regret.
Humanizing Outgroups Through Multiple Categorization
Authors: Prati Francesca , Crisp Richard J. , Meleady Rose , Rubini Monica
Published: March 2016

In three studies, we examined the impact of multiple categorization on intergroup dehumanization. Study 1 showed that perceiving members of a rival university along multiple versus simple categorical dimensions enhanced the tendency to attribute human traits to this group. Study 2 showed that multiple versus simple categorization of immigrants increased the attribution of uniquely human emotions to them. This effect was explained by the sequential mediation of increased individuation of the outgroup and reduced outgroup threat. Study 3 replicated this sequential mediation model and introduced a novel way of measuring humanization in which participants generated attributes corresponding to the outgroup in a free response format. Participants generated more uniquely human traits in the multiple versus simple categorization conditions. We discuss the theoretical implications of these findings and consider their role in informing and improving efforts to ameliorate contemporary forms of intergroup discrimination.
Ethical foundations of the radiological protection system
Authors: Cho K.W.
Published: March 2016

The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) has established Task Group 94 under Committee 4 to develop a report on the ethical foundations of the system of radiological protection. The aim of this report is to consolidate the basis of ICRP recommendations, to improve understanding of the system, and to provide a basis for communication on radiation risk and its perception. Through a series of workshops organised by the Commission in cooperation with the International Radiation Protection Association and its associate societies involving radiological protection professionals and specialists of ethics around the world, Task Group 94 has identified the key ethical and social values underpinning the system of radiological protection. The purpose of eliciting the ethical principles and values of the radiological protection system is not only to clarify the rationale for recommendations made by the Commission, but also to assist in discussions related to its practical implementation. A clear understanding of the ethical principles will help resolve dilemmas caused by potential conflicts in actions that might be considered, or decisions that must be made.
Use of effective dose
Authors: Harrison J.D. , Balonov M. , Martin C.J. , Ortiz Lopez P. , Menzel H-G. , Simmonds J.R. , Smith-Bindman R. , Wakeford R.
Published: March 2016

International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) Publication 103 provided a detailed explanation of the purpose and use of effective dose and equivalent dose to individual organs and tissues. Effective dose has proven to be a valuable and robust quantity for use in the implementation of protection principles. However, questions have arisen regarding practical applications, and a Task Group has been set up to consider issues of concern. This paper focusses on two key proposals developed by the Task Group that are under consideration by ICRP: (1) confusion will be avoided if equivalent dose is no longer used as a protection quantity, but regarded as an intermediate step in the calculation of effective dose. It would be more appropriate for limits for the avoidance of deterministic effects to the hands and feet, lens of the eye, and skin, to be set in terms of the quantity, absorbed dose (Gy) rather than equivalent dose (Sv). (2) Effective dose is in widespread use in medical practice as a measure of risk, thereby going beyond its intended purpose. While doses incurred at low levels of exposure may be measured or assessed with reasonable reliability, health effects have not been demonstrated reliably at such levels but are inferred. However, bearing in mind the uncertainties associated with risk projection to low doses or low dose rates, it may be considered reasonable to use effective dose as a rough indicator of possible risk, with the additional consideration of variation in risk with age, sex and population group.
Diode Laser Stapedotomy vs Conventional Stapedotomy in Otosclerosis
Authors: Parida Pradipta Kumar , Kalaiarasi Raja , Gopalakrishnan Surianarayana
Published: March 2016

Objectives

To assess and compare the efficacy of diode laser stapedotomy (DLS) and conventional manual stapedotomy (CMS) in the treatment of otosclerosis.

Study Design

Randomized clinical trial.

Setting

Tertiary health center.

Subjects and Methods

We randomly assigned 60 patients with otosclerosis planned for primary stapedotomy to receive either DLS or CMS. Primary outcome measure was hearing gain measured by pure‐tone audiometry (PTA) performed preoperatively and postoperatively. Hearing gain was compared within and between the groups. Secondary outcome measures were the incidence of intraoperative (bleeding and fractured footplate) and postoperative (vomiting, vertigo, sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus, facial nerve paralysis, and hospital stay) morbidities.

Results

Sixty primary stapedotomies (30 in the CMS group and 30 in the DLS group) done for 60 patients (male, n = 42; female, n = 18) were included in the analysis. Preoperative mean air‐bone (AB) gap in the DLS and CMS groups was 38.51 ± 8.643 dB and 36.42 ± 8.678 dB, respectively. Mean AB gap at 6 month was 10.86 ± 5.383 dB and 11.05 ± 5.236 dB in the CMS and DLS groups, respectively. Air conduction was improved by 24.98 ± 5.348 dB in the DLS group and 24.08 ± 5.911 dB in the CMS group at 6 months. No statistically significant differences were found in hearing gain between the 2 groups at 6 months (P >. 05). A decreased rate and severity of intraoperative bleeding, postoperative vertigo, and vomiting were observed with the diode laser (0%, 6.6%, and 10%) compared with the conventional technique (16.7%, 16.7%, and 16.7%), but these differences were not statistically significant (P >. 05).

Conclusion

Hearing outcomes and complications of DLS were similar to CMS. These study findings confirm the efficacy of the diode laser in stapedotomy, but DLS offers no advantages over CMS for otosclerosis surgery.
Robotic Thyroidectomy
Authors: Sung Eui Suk , Ji Yong Bae , Song Chang Myeon , Yun Bo Ram , Chung Won Sang , Tae Kyung
Published: March 2016

Objectives

Robotic thyroidectomy using remote access approaches has gained popularity with patients seeking to avoid neck scarring and enhanced cosmetic satisfaction. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and advantages of a postauricular facelift approach vs a gasless unilateral axillary (GUA) approach in robotic thyroidectomy.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

University tertiary care hospital.

Subjects and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data of 65 patients who underwent robotic thyroidectomy with or without central neck dissection using a GUA approach (45 patients) or a postauricular facelift approach (20 patients) between September 2013 and December 2014. We excluded patients who underwent simultaneous lateral neck dissection or completion thyroidectomy.

Results

Robotic procedures were completed without being converted to an open procedure in all patients. There were no significant differences in terms of patient and tumor characteristics, extent of thyroidectomy and central neck dissection, operative time, complications, and postoperative pain between the 2 approaches, except the higher female ratio in the GUA approach group (female ratio, 95.6% vs 75%, P =. 042). Cosmetic satisfaction evaluated by a questionnaire was not significantly different between the 2 groups, and most patients of both groups (85.7%) were satisfied with postoperative cosmesis.

Conclusion

Both GUA and postauricular facelift approaches are feasible, with no significant adverse events in patients, and result in excellent cosmesis. However, a GUA approach seems to be superior when performing total thyroidectomy using a unilateral incision based on the preliminary result.
Effects of Cell‐Based Therapy for Treating Tympanic Membrane Perforations in Mice
Authors: Goncalves Stefania , Bas Esperanza , Goldstein Bradley J. , Angeli Simon
Published: March 2016

Objective

To investigate the effectiveness of scaffold‐embedded mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as a topical treatment for healing tympanic membrane perforations (TMPs) in a mouse model.

Study Design

Prospective animal study.

Setting

Experimental.

Subjects and Methods

In vitro: under sterile conditions, porcine‐derived (Gelita‐Spon [GS]), hyaluronate‐derived (EpiDisc [ED]), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) scaffolds were cut into small pieces and cocultured with murine bone marrow–derived MSCs (BM‐MSCs) expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) for 72 hours. The cultures were either analyzed by confocal microscopy or used for subsequent in vivo experiments. In vivo: 26 mice were divided into 3 groups (ie, control [n = 9], GS [n = 8], ED [n = 9]). Under general anesthesia, TMPs of equal sizes were performed bilaterally using a sterile 27‐gauge needle under a surgical microscope. The BM‐MSCs embedded within GS or ED scaffolds were soaked in phosphate‐buffered saline and then topically applied on right TMPs, and scaffolds alone were applied on left TMPs 6 to 8 hours after injury. Control mice did not receive treatment. On day 7, animals were euthanized and bullae were harvested for histological analysis.

Results

In vitro: BM‐MSCs grew well on both GS (P =. 0012) and ED (P =. 0001) scaffolds compared with PVA. In vivo: 100% of untreated (control) TMPs remained open after 7 days. Animals treated with MSC‐embedded ED scaffolds had a higher percentage of TMP closure (P =. 016) and a thicker neotympanum (P =. 0033) than control animals. The experimentally applied BM‐MSCs engrafted and differentiated into epithelial cells suggested by the colocalized expression of cytokeratin‐19 and GFP.

Conclusions

The topical application of bone marrow–derived MSCs enhances the healing of TMPs in this animal model and is a promising alternative to tympanoplasty.
Contralateral Vocal Fold Reactive Lesions
Authors: Koss Shira L. , Kidwai Sarah M. , Pitman Michael J.
Published: March 2016

Objective

Contralateral reactive lesions (RLs) represent a distinct entity among benign bilateral vocal fold (VF) lesions. Lack of uniform nomenclature and a myriad of surgical options have hampered attempts to develop treatment guidelines. The objective of this study is to better define RLs and their prognosis, through the development of a standard nomenclature, with an aim to guide treatment and delineate the role of phonosurgery.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Subjects and Methods

Analysis was performed on patients with Current Procedural Terminology code 31545. Operative reports with a primary lesion and contralateral RL were included. Outcomes included the Voice Handicap Index–10 (VHI‐10) and GRBAS (grade, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, and strain) scale, lesion persistence/recurrence, mucosal wave, and edge character based on blinded videostroboscopy review.

Results

A nomenclature was developed based on intraoperative RLs (n = 30), defined by lesion consistency (fibrous or polypoid) and relationship to normal VF edge (gradual or steep). Reactive lesion treatment included no intervention, excision, potassium titanyl phosphate laser, steroid injection, or a combination thereof. Observations included the following: inconsistent treatment modalities were employed, excision of RLs did not yield better outcomes, fibrous RLs were more likely to persist and polypoid lesions more likely to recur, gradual lesions were more likely to remain disease free, and most treatments showed improved mucosal wave, VHI‐10, and GRBAS.

Conclusions

Reactive lesions have not been well classified, and treatments are based on subjective intraoperative decision making with unpredictable outcomes. The nomenclature proposed will allow for a better definition of the RL and provide a framework for future research to identify optimal treatment.
Comparison of Robotic versus Conventional Selective Neck Dissection and Total Thyroidectomy for Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Song Chang Myeon , Ji Yong Bae , Sung Eui Suk , Kim Dong Sun , Koo Hye Ryoung , Tae Kyung
Published: March 2016

Objective

To compare the surgical outcomes of robotic selective neck dissection (SND) with total thyroidectomy and conventional transcervical SND with total thyroidectomy.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

University tertiary care facility.

Subject and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 66 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy with SND (≥3 levels of II‐V) and bilateral central neck dissection for cN1b papillary thyroid carcinoma, of whom 41 underwent conventional SND and 25 of whom underwent robotic SND. Subjective pain, sensory change, and cosmetic satisfaction were evaluated regularly for 3 months with a questionnaire.

Results

Compared with the conventional group, patients in the robotic group were younger (mean, 36.7 vs 47.5 years; P =. 003) and more female dominant (96.0% vs 73.2%; P =. 023). Mean total operative time was longer in the robotic group than the conventional group (298 vs 236 minutes; P <. 001). Anterior chest pain was higher in the robotic group at postoperative 1 day (pain score, 1.88 vs 0.62; P =. 011), 1 week (1.30 vs 0.43; P =. 036), and 1 month (0.90 vs 0.18; P =. 029). Postoperative cosmetic satisfaction was significantly superior in the robotic group.

Conclusion

Compared with conventional transcervical SND with total thyroidectomy, robotic SND with total thyroidectomy yields superior outcomes for cosmetic satisfaction, longer operative time, and higher chest pain in the short term. Further study with a larger number of patients is mandatory.
Cochlear Implantation in Canal Wall Down Mastoid Cavities
Authors: Hunter Jacob B. , Fernando Shanik J. , Bennett Marc L. , Haynes David S. , Wanna George B.
Published: March 2016

Cochlear implantation in canal wall down mastoid (CWD) cavities is fraught with the issue of how best to manage the mastoid cavity. Decision points include whether the external auditory meatus should be overclosed, whether the implantation should be staged, or even if the eustachian tube should be plugged. Given these options, we sought to describe our experience of cochlear implantation in CWD cavities. Among evaluation of subjects ≥18 years of age, 9 had cochlear implants placed in CWD mastoid cavities, 7 of which had the external auditory meatus overclosed, while 2 maintained open cavities following implantation. With an average follow‐up of 36.7 months (median, 22.8 months), 2 subjects who had overclosure developed meatal dehiscences requiring further intervention, while no complications were observed in the 2 patients who maintained open cavities.
A Theological Reflection on Children-at-Risk
Authors: Willmer Haddon , Prevette Bill
Published: March 2016

This essay concentrates on the term ‘children-at-risk’ taken on its own. However much risk and need are intertwined in practice, they are distinguishable as concepts. ‘Children-at-risk’ is not a virtual synonym of ‘children in need’. It is theologically suggestive and worth exploring because faith is always seeking understanding. All children are at risk in some way. Risks take various forms, each calling for an appropriate response. All risks are components of the ultimate risk of being human, of falling short of the glory of God, of failing to be, to become and to persist in being, truly human, as measured in the fullness of Christ. Thus all risks have theological significance, unless God is denied totally, or restricted and stifled in a religious cave. God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit share the risk of being human mysteriously, really and unreservedly. This understanding of risk comes to us from our lived experience and from the revelation of God in Christ, as witnessed in the Scriptures. Action for children-at-risk and in need is obedience to the core of the Gospel in Jesus Christ. Engaged concern for children-at-risk brings us into practical difficulties, which are also theological.
Salicylic acid analogues as chemical exchange saturation transfer MRI contrast agents for the assessment of brain perfusion territory and blood–brain barrier opening after intra-arterial infusion
Authors: Song Xiaolei , Walczak Piotr , He Xiaowei , Yang Xing , Pearl Monica , Bulte Jeff WM , Pomper Martin G , McMahon Michael T , Janowski Mirosław
Published: March 2016

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a major obstacle for drug delivery to the brain. Predicted, focal opening of the BBB through intra-arterial infusion of hyperosmolar mannitol is feasible, but there is a need to facilitate imaging techniques (e.g. MRI) to guide interventional procedures and assess the outcomes. Here, we show that salicylic acid analogues (SAA) can depict the brain territory supplied by the catheter and detect the BBB opening, through chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI. Hyperosmolar SAA solutions themselves are also capable of opening the BBB, and, when multiple SAA agents were co-injected, their locoregional perfusion could be differentiated.
Warm-Up Your Audience Before Dancing With Them
Authors: Visch Valentijn
Published: March 2016

Audiences of dance performances often want to participate, but when given the possibility to do so may feel restrained. Persuasive Game Design methods were used to enhance audience participation by providing the audience with a gamified warm-up. The warm-up was designed to resolve the inhibiting factors for audience participation (e.g., social inhibition, cognitive, and physical preparedness) by using game elements imitation, fantasy, and social team building. In a between-subjects design ( N = 96), the effect of a gamified warm-up preceding a dance performance on audience participation during the dance performance was tested, focusing on the observed participation rate, intensity, and willingness, as well as on the audience experience of participation. Analyses showed a significant increase in participation rate, in participation intensity, and in reported liking of the participation. It is concluded that persuasive game design can be applied effectively to increase audience participation. Future research on the generalizability of the findings to other domains and on the isolated motivational effects of warm-up components is discussed.
The Effects of Perceptions of Organizational Structure on Job Involvement, Job Satisfaction, and Organizational Commitment Among Indian Police Officers
Authors: Lambert Eric G. , Qureshi Hanif , Klahm Charles , Smith Brad , Frank James
Published: March 2016

Successful police organizations rely on involved, satisfied, and committed workers. The concepts of job involvement (i.e., connection with the job), job satisfaction (i.e., affective feeling toward the job), and organizational commitment (i.e., bond with the employing organization) have been shown to significantly affect intentions and behaviors of employees. The current study used multivariate ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analysis on survey results from a sample of 827 Indian police officers to explore how perceptions of work environment factors affect officers’ job involvement, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment. Organizational support, formalization (i.e., level of codified written rules and guidelines), promotional opportunities, institutional communication (i.e., salient work information is transmitted), and input into decision-making (i.e., having a voice in the process) significantly influenced the job involvement, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment of Indian police officers. Specifically, in the multivariate analysis, perceptions of formalization and instrumental communication had a positive relationship with job involvement; perceptions of organizational support, promotional opportunities, instrumental communication, and input into decision-making had positive associations with job satisfaction; and perceptions of organizational support, formalization, promotional opportunities, instrumental communication, and input into decision-making had positive relationships with organizational commitment.
A Randomized Clinical Trial to Assess the Clinical Effectiveness of a Measured Objective Tensioning Device in Hamstring Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Grunau Peter David , Arneja Shalinder , Leith Jordan Michael
Published: March 2016

Background:

Soft tissue grafts are commonly used in surgical reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Applying the appropriate tension to the final graft reconstruction has traditionally been performed by the surgeon and is based on the surgeon’s experience and perception of applied tension. Problems with manual application of tension to the ACL reconstruction include under- or overtightening the reconstruction, inconsistent tension application among subjects, and variable load application to each strand.

Purpose:

To assess whether measured tensioning of hamstring ACL grafts during fixation improves clinical outcome or knee laxity postoperatively when compared with conventional tensioning maneuvers.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

This was a prospective randomized controlled trial of consecutive primary ACL patients. The device group included patients in whom a measured tensioning device was used for graft tensioning (80 N), and the physician group did not use a tensioning device. The primary outcome was KT-1000 arthrometer side-to-side laxity differences between knees at 6, 12, and 18 months postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Evaluation Form and Anterior Cruciate Ligament Quality of Life Questionnaire (ACL-QoL) at those intervals. Chi-square and t tests were used for analysis. The study had 90% power to detect a difference of 2 mm between groups.

Results:

A sample of 127 patients was randomized. Of those, 14 did not have follow-up data and were excluded from this analysis, resulting in a final sample of 113 (55 patients in the device group and 58 in the physician group). No significant differences were found in baseline demographics or comorbidities. There were no significant differences between the groups (physician vs device) at baseline and at 6, 12, and 18 months in side-to-side laxity (4.6 vs 4.7 mm, 1.6 vs 1.3 mm, 1.5 vs 1.3 mm, and 1.1 vs 1.0 mm, respectively), IKDC score (58.2 vs 56.4, 72.0 vs 67.9, 79.9 vs 76.0, and 81.3 vs 78.5, respectively), or ACL-QoL score (998.2 vs 901.2, 1846.4 vs 1647.5, 2150.4 vs 2268.3, and 2436.9 vs 2231.8, respectively).

Conclusion:

Measured tensioning of hamstring ACL grafts during fixation does not improve clinical outcome or knee laxity postoperatively when compared with conventional tensioning maneuvers.
Prevalence of Past-Year Mental Disorders in the Canadian Armed Forces, 2002-2013
Authors: Zamorski Mark A. , Bennett Rachel E. , Rusu Corneliu , Weeks Murray , Boulos David , Garber Bryan G.
Published: March 2016

Objective:

More than 40,000 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel have deployed in support of the mission in Afghanistan since 2002. Over the same period, the CAF strengthened its mental health system. This article explores the effect of these events on the prevalence of past-year mental disorders over the period 2002-2013.

Method:

The data sources were 2 highly comparable population-based mental health surveys of CAF Regular Force personnel done in 2002 and 2013 ( n = 5155 and 6996, respectively). Data were collected via in-person interviews with Statistics Canada personnel using the World Health Organization’s Composite International Diagnostic Interview to assess past-year disorders.

Results:

In 2013, 16.5% had 1 or more of the 6 past-year disorders assessed in the survey, with the most common conditions being major depressive episode (MDE), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), which affected 8.0%, 5.3%, and 4.7%, respectively. The prevalence of PTSD, GAD, and panic disorder has increased significantly since 2002 (adjusted odds ratios from logistic regression models = 2.1, 3.0, and 1.9, respectively), while no change was seen for MDE. The comorbidity of mood and anxiety disorders increased significantly over time, being seen in 27.4% and 41.0% of those with mental disorders in 2002 and 2013, respectively.

Conclusion:

There has been an increase in the prevalence of PTSD and other anxiety disorders and of the extent of comorbidity of mood and anxiety disorders in CAF personnel over the period 2002-2013.