bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inspired by the Paralympics: Effects of Empathy on Audience Interest in Para-Sports and on the Destigmatization of Persons With Disabilities
Authors: Bartsch Anne , Oliver Mary Beth , Nitsch Cordula , Scherr Sebastian
Published: February 2016

Theories of eudaimonic entertainment and destigmatization concur to suggest that empathic feelings elicited by portrayals of Paralympic athletes can increase audience interest in para-sports and can lead to prosocial attitude change toward persons with disabilities in general. Three experiments were conducted to examine this dual, mutually reinforcing function of empathy in promoting public awareness and destigmatization. Participants watched television spots about the Paralympics that elicited different levels of empathy. As expected, structural equation modeling revealed indirect effects of empathy on audience interest, attitudes, and behavioral intentions that were mediated by elevation and reflective thoughts (Studies 1 and 2), and by feelings of closeness, elevation, and pity (Study 3). Mediation effects were positive for reflective thoughts, elevation, and closeness, but were negative for pity. Results are discussed with regard to problematic effects of pity, and concerns that elevating “supercrip” narratives might lead to negative perceptions of persons with disabilities in general.
Changing US Attributes After CS-US Pairings Changes CS-Attribute-Assessments
Authors: Förderer Sabine , Unkelbach Christian
Published: February 2016

Attribute Conditioning (AC) refers to people’s changed assessments of stimuli’s (CSs) attributes due to repeated pairing with stimuli (USs) possessing these attributes; for example, when an athletic person (US) is paired with a neutral person (CS), the neutral person is judged to be more athletic after the pairing. We hypothesize that this AC effect is due to CSs’ associations with USs rather than direct associations with attributes. Three experiments test this hypothesis by changing US attributes after CS-US pairings. Experiments 1 and 2 conditioned athleticism by pairing neutral men (CSs) with athletic and non-athletic USs. Post-conditioning, USs’ athleticism was reversed, which systematically influenced participants’ assessment of CS athleticism. Experiment 3 conditioned athleticism and changed USs’ musicality after CS-US pairings. This post-conditioning change affected musicality assessments of CSs but did not influence athleticism-assessments. The results indicate that AC effects are based on an associative CS-US-attribute structure.
Home Country Institutions and the Internationalization-Performance Relationship
Authors: Marano Valentina , Arregle Jean-Luc , Hitt Michael A. , Spadafora Ettore , van Essen Marc
Published: February 2016

We propose that the mixed findings of research on the internationalization-performance (I-P) relationship reflect its failure to adequately consider the moderating role of firms’ home country formal and informal institutions. This general hypothesis is supported in a meta-analysis of the firm-, industry-, home country–, and host country–level factors driving the I-P relationship across 32 countries between 1972 and 2012 from 359 primary studies—the largest sample of primary studies of any meta-analysis on this topic to date. We make three main contributions to the I-P and global strategy literatures. First, we develop a novel integration of the theoretical logics from the I-P research and the institution-based view of strategy to explain how embeddedness in home country institutions affects the strength of the I-P relationship. Second, we show the importance of including both formal and informal institutions in analyses of firms’ institutional embeddedness, thereby extending our knowledge of the effects of institutional complexity. Our third contribution is methodological and reflects our use of advanced meta-analytical techniques based on both product-moment and partial correlations as effect sizes, which allow us to address unresolved debates about the sign and shape of the I-P relationship. Our results show that the I-P relationship is positive, although the overall effect is small and varies greatly across firms’ home countries. We conclude by discussing the findings’ relevance and promising future research avenues, including novel research questions, multilevel theoretical and empirical frameworks, and improvements in methodological rigor.
A Single Case Study of the Impact of Policy Changes on Identification for Gifted Programs
Authors: Warne Russell T. , Price Chris J.
Published: February 2016

The annals of gifted education research contain few educational policy studies and even fewer studies on the impacts of changes in policy. To partially fill this gap, the authors performed an ABA study investigating the impact of accountability legislation on the number of students reported gifted in Texas public schools. Data were collected from the 1999–2000 school year to 2012–2013 school year from a public educational database. Data analysis showed that when accountability legislation was in effect, more students were identified as gifted in Texas public schools. In addition, the percentage of campuses with few or no gifted students was lower when accountability systems were in place. Therefore, it seems likely that accountability legislation is an important component for gifted programs in public schools. The article concludes with a discussion of the limitations of this single case study.
Beyond ‘the Eye’ of the Beholder: Scent innovation through analogical reconfiguration
Authors: Islam Gazi , Endrissat Nada , Noppeney Claus
Published: February 2016

The current paper examines analogical processes as drivers of innovation in the creative industries. Based on a longitudinal case study of a signature perfume label, we argue that analogies embody cultural schemas in diverse material modalities, a process commonly referred to as analogical schematization. We highlight the role of materiality to ground these analogical processes, bridging embodied cognition and material products. We extend knowledge in this area by showing, among perfumers, how analogies work not only vertically from idea to concrete product but also horizontally across modalities, leveraging material affordances in a process that we label analogical reconfiguration. We discuss the implications of understanding innovation as being driven by analogical processes where materiality is key in creating novel, yet seemingly familiar, products in the creative industries.
Repair of Posterior Glottic Stenosis with the Modified Endoscopic Postcricoid Advancement Flap
Authors: Damrose Edward J. , Beswick Daniel M.
Published: February 2016

Posterior glottic stenosis is a difficult clinical problem that frequently results in bilateral vocal fold immobility, dyspnea, and tracheostomy dependence. Charts were reviewed of all patients undergoing a modified endoscopic postcricoid advancement flap procedure for posterior glottic stenosis between October 1, 2003, and June 30, 2015. Age, sex, operative findings, complications, and outcomes were noted. Follow‐up was available in 10 of 11 patients, 10 of whom were successfully decannulated. There were no complications. Regular diet was maintained in all patients. In patients with bilateral vocal fold immobility secondary to posterior glottis stenosis, endoscopic repair via endoscopic postcricoid advancement flap can restore full vocal fold motion and allow decannulation. In select patients with posterior glottic stenosis, repair via endoscopic postcricoid advancement flap should be considered in lieu of ablative methods, such as cordotomy, cordectomy, or arytenoidectomy.
Increased expression of the sonic hedgehog and vascular endothelial growth factor with co-localization in varicocele veins
Authors: Wang Shih-Ho , Yang Wen-Kai , Lee Jane-Dar
Published: February 2016

Objectives

Varicocele is characterized by dilatation and tortuosity of the internal spermatic vein. Sonic hedgehog plays an important role in angiogenesis and vascular remodeling under hypoxic stress. We studied the relationship and distribution of SHH and vascular endothelial growth factor in internal spermatic vein in patients diagnosed with varicocele.

Methods

Specimens of 1 cm were taken from the internal spermatic vein during left varicocele repair (N = 20). The control samples of ISV were obtained from eight male patients who underwent left inguinal herniorrhaphy. We analyzed the sonic hedgehog and vascular endothelial growth factor expression and distribution by immunoblotting, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescent staining, and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The data were analyzed using the Student’s t test.

Results

Immunoblotting showed higher expression of sonic hedgehog and vascular endothelial growth factor proteins in varicocele veins than in the control group ( P < 0.05) which located over muscle layer and endothelium was demonstrated by immunohistochemical staining. Both proteins with co-localization in the muscle layer and especially distributed in endothelium of varicocele veins were revealed under confocal microscopy.

Conclusions

These findings showed the upexpression of sonic hedgehog and vascular endothelial growth factor with co-localization in varicocele veins which imply that the reducing hypoxia or using sonic hedgehog antagonists may be helpful for this vascular disease.
Sodium oxybate plus nalmefene for the treatment of alcohol use disorder: A case series
Authors: Caputo Fabio , Maremmani Angelo GI , Addolorato Giovanni , Domenicali Marco , Zoli Giorgio , D’Amore Antonio , Maremmani Icro , Bernardi Mauro
Published: February 2016

The treatment of alcohol use disorder still remains a challenge. The efficacy of the combined pharmacological treatment for alcohol use disorder has been widely investigated with controversial results. The aim of our case series was to investigate the effect of nalmefene in patients not responding to sodium oxybate therapy. We describe seven cases of consecutive patients affected by alcohol use disorder, and treated with sodium oxybate (50 mg/kg per day) who did not achieve complete alcohol abstinence after at least one month of pharmacological treatment. Then, in partial- and non-responder patients to sodium oxybate treatment, administration of nalmefene, 18 mg as needed, was commenced. Our data show that, during the first month of the combined treatment of sodium oxybate plus nalmefene, patients were able to achieve alcohol abstinence (two patients), to suppress (five cases) or reduce (two patients) episodes of heavy drinking days, and to suppress the onset of craving for sodium oxybate (one patient). Likely, nalmefene may act in modulating the excessive reward effect of sodium oxybate, which may be responsible for the persistence of alcohol intake and for the onset of craving for sodium oxybate. However, controlled clinical trials to confirm the safety and efficacy of sodium oxybate plus nalmefene in treating alcohol use disorder are warranted.
In vitro models of the blood–brain barrier: An overview of commonly used brain endothelial cell culture models and guidelines for their use
Authors: Helms Hans C , Abbott N Joan , Burek Malgorzata , Cecchelli Romeo , Couraud Pierre-Olivier , Deli Maria A , Förster Carola , Galla Hans J , Romero Ignacio A , Shusta Eric V , Stebbins Matthew J , Vandenhaute Elodie , Weksler Babette , Brodin Birger
Published: February 2016

The endothelial cells lining the brain capillaries separate the blood from the brain parenchyma. The endothelial monolayer of the brain capillaries serves both as a crucial interface for exchange of nutrients, gases, and metabolites between blood and brain, and as a barrier for neurotoxic components of plasma and xenobiotics. This “blood-brain barrier” function is a major hindrance for drug uptake into the brain parenchyma. Cell culture models, based on either primary cells or immortalized brain endothelial cell lines, have been developed, in order to facilitate in vitro studies of drug transport to the brain and studies of endothelial cell biology and pathophysiology. In this review, we aim to give an overview of established in vitro blood–brain barrier models with a focus on their validation regarding a set of well-established blood–brain barrier characteristics. As an ideal cell culture model of the blood–brain barrier is yet to be developed, we also aim to give an overview of the advantages and drawbacks of the different models described.
Chronic Kidney Disease in Aged Cats
Authors: Brown C. A. , Elliott J. , Schmiedt C. W. , Brown S. A.
Published: February 2016

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the most common metabolic disease of domesticated cats, with most affected cats being geriatric (>12 years of age). The prevalence of CKD in cats exceeds that observed in dogs, and the frequency of the diagnosis of CKD in cats has increased in recent decades. Typical histologic features include interstitial inflammation, tubular atrophy, and fibrosis with secondary glomerulosclerosis. In contrast to people and dogs, primary glomerulopathies with marked proteinuria are remarkably rare findings in cats. Although a variety of primary renal diseases have been implicated, the disease is idiopathic in most cats. Tubulointerstitial changes, including fibrosis, are present in the early stages of feline CKD and become more severe in advanced disease. A variety of factors—including aging, ischemia, comorbid conditions, phosphorus overload, and routine vaccinations—have been implicated as factors that could contribute to the initiation of this disease in affected cats. Factors that are related to progression of established CKD, which occurs in some but not all cats, include dietary phosphorus intake, magnitude of proteinuria, and anemia. Renal fibrosis, a common histologic feature of aged feline kidneys, interferes with the normal relationship between peritubular capillaries and renal tubules. Experimentally, renal ischemia results in morphologic changes similar to those observed in spontaneous CKD. Renal hypoxia, perhaps episodic, may play a role in the initiation and progression of this disease.
Pathology of the Aging Brain in Domestic and Laboratory Animals, and Animal Models of Human Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Youssef S. A. , Capucchio M. T. , Rofina J. E. , Chambers J. K. , Uchida K. , Nakayama H. , Head E.
Published: February 2016

According to the WHO, the proportion of people over 60 years is increasing and expected to reach 22% of total world’s population in 2050. In parallel, recent animal demographic studies have shown that the life expectancy of pet dogs and cats is increasing. Brain aging is associated not only with molecular and morphological changes but also leads to different degrees of behavioral and cognitive dysfunction. Common age-related brain lesions in humans include brain atrophy, neuronal loss, amyloid plaques, cerebrovascular amyloid angiopathy, vascular mineralization, neurofibrillary tangles, meningeal osseous metaplasia, and accumulation of lipofuscin. In aging humans, the most common neurodegenerative disorder is Alzheimer’s disease (AD), which progressively impairs cognition, behavior, and quality of life. Pathologic changes comparable to the lesions of AD are described in several other animal species, although their clinical significance and effect on cognitive function are poorly documented. This review describes the commonly reported age-associated neurologic lesions in domestic and laboratory animals and the relationship of these lesions to cognitive dysfunction. Also described are the comparative interspecies similarities and differences to AD and other human neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson’s disease and progressive supranuclear palsy, and the spontaneous and transgenic animal models of these diseases.
Achievement motivation for band: A cross-cultural examination of the 2 × 2 achievement goal motivation framework
Authors: Miksza Peter , Tan Leonard , Dye Christopher
Published: February 2016

The purpose of this study was to explore the achievement goal motivation orientations of instrumental music students in the US and Singapore. Participants in this study were volunteer band students ( N = 359) from eight American public high schools ( n = 217) and five polytechnics in Singapore ( n = 142). Data were collected via a questionnaire that included measures of (a) the 2 × 2 achievement goal orientation constructs (mastery approach, mastery avoid, performance approach, and performance avoid), (b) flow in band rehearsal, (c) grit in practicing, and (d) commitment to band. Confirmatory factor analyses indicated that the 2 × 2 achievement goal framework specifying four latent variables (mastery approach, mastery avoid, performance approach, performance avoid) was the best relative fit to the data when compared with competing dichotomous and trichotomous models. In contrast to previous research comparing achievement goals of learners from collectivistic and individualistic cultures, no significant differences in achievement goal sub-scale means were found as a function of culture. However, some differentiated patterns of relationship were found between the achievement goal sub-scales and flow, grit, and commitment to band as a function of culture.
Drying techniques applied to cellulose nanofibers
Authors: Zimmermann Matheus VG , Borsoi Cleide , Lavoratti Alessandra , Zanini Marcia , Zattera Ademir J , Santana Ruth MC
Published: February 2016

Nanotechnology applied to cellulosic fibers has quickly become an interdisciplinary field with great interest in the application as reinforcement in polymer composites, mainly due to the abundance of these raw materials, and to their mechanical properties and multifunctionality. However, one of the critical points to obtain individualized cellulose nanofibers is the drying technique (dehydration), since most of the nanofiber processes are performed in the liquid phase. According to the methodology applied to the cellulose water dehydration process, various morphologies and properties can be obtained in the cellulose fibers. This review study aims to discuss the main processes used to obtain nanocellulose (chemical and mechanical) and the drying techniques applied to nanocellulose structures, such as conventional oven drying, freeze drying (lyophilization), supercritical extraction, and spray drying.
Swedish merchant shipping in troubled times: The French Revolutionary Wars and Sweden’s neutrality 1793–1801
Authors: Müller Leos
Published: February 2016

This article focuses on Swedish merchant shipping in the first decade of the French Revolutionary Wars, when Sweden, due its neutrality, expanded its trade and shipping. The article attempts to balance two contradictory views of neutral shipping: that of high risks of seizure by belligerents, and that of wartime profits. Three different perspectives are employed to demonstrate the complexity of neutral shipping business. Registers of ship documents ( fribrev and Algerian sea passes) show the relatively limited impact of political events on shipping activities. Legal documents in diplomatic correspondence illustrate practically how the cases of seized ships were handled on both political and court levels. The debate in print on the case of ship Maria (the convoy affair of 1798) indicates how the issue of neutral prizes became incorporated into the political discourse on international relations and law of nations.
Experimental and simulation study on the thermal characteristics of the high-speed spindle system
Authors: Ma Chi , Zhao Liang , Shi Hu , Mei Xuesong , Yang Jun
Published: February 2016

High-speed spindles often suffer from degeneration in its machining accuracy caused by the uneven distribution of temperature field. In order to improve the machining accuracy of high-speed spindles, a three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis (FEA) model, which considered the combined effect of thermal contact resistance (TCR) and the change in heat power and stiffness caused by thermal displacements of bearing components on the accuracy of simulation results, was proposed to conduct transient thermal-structure analysis of high-speed spindles. The predictive model for TCR was proposed based on the fractal theory to characterize the rough surface morphology with disorder, self-affinity and non-stationary random features. And a contact mechanics model was developed to consider the influence of asperities’ deformation on TCR. The thermal-structure model of bearing was proposed to calculate the heat power and stiffness based on the quasi-static mechanics analysis. The FEA model proposed in this paper was used to simulate the temperature field distribution and thermal deformations of the high-speed spindle system. Then thermal characteristic experiments were conducted to validate the effectiveness of this model. The results showed that the FEA model was much more accurate than the traditional model which ignored the above two important factors. The temperature field and thermal errors of the spindle system were analyzed.
Investigation of the vibration and buckling of graphynes: A molecular dynamics-based finite element model
Authors: Rouhi Saeed , Pour Reza Tayyeb , Ramzani Babak , Mehran Saeed
Published: February 2016

Molecular dynamics simulations are used to investigate the mechanical properties of graphynes. To study the effect of atomic structure and graphyne size on Young’s and bulk modulus, armchair and zigzag nanosheets with different side lengths and aspect ratios are considered. It is observed that at a constant aspect ratio (the ratio of height to side length), variation of side length has no significant effect on Young’s modulus of graphynes. Besides, using the obtained results by molecular dynamics simulations, a finite element model is proposed to study the vibrational and buckling behaviors of graphynes. The effects of different parameters such as nanosheet geometry and boundary conditions on the fundamental natural frequency and critical buckling force of graphynes are explored. It is shown that increasing side length has an inverse effect on the frequency and buckling force. Increasing aspect ratio results in decreasing the frequency. However, this effect reduces for longer sheets. Increasing aspect ratio results in converging the vibration curves associated with graphynes under different boundary conditions. Moreover, by increasing aspect ratio, the sensitivity of buckling force to aspect ratio variation decreases.
Cryptococcemia in primary HIV infection
Authors: Yeung Victor Au , Azzam Rula , Dendle Claire , Graham Maryza , Woolley Ian J , Korman Tony M
Published: February 2016

Opportunistic infections have been reported infrequently in primary HIV infection. We report a case of cryptococcemia in primary HIV infection. To our knowledge there has not been such a case reported. Our case highlights the need for clinicians to be wary of other opportunistic infections, including cryptococcosis, in primary HIV infection.
Prevalence and distribution of non-AIDS causes of death among HIV-infected individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Farahani Mansour , Mulinder Holly , Farahani Alexander , Marlink Richard
Published: February 2016

The advent of antiretroviral therapy has significantly improved AIDS-related morbidity and mortality. Yet, among people living with HIV, deaths due to non-AIDS-defining illnesses have been on the rise. The objective of this study was to provide information about the global prevalence and distribution of non-AIDS causes of death in the last ten years among people living with HIV receiving antiretroviral therapy, by income levels of countries. We used broad search terms in Google Scholar, PubMed, and EMBASE to identify all studies that investigated the cause of death among people living with HIV receiving antiretroviral therapy, published after January 1, 2005. References were also identified from review articles and reference lists. Inclusion criteria were English language, the study’s end date was after 2005, all patients were HIV-positive, at least two-thirds of the patients were receiving antiretroviral therapy, at least one patient died of non-AIDS causes of death. Titles, abstracts, and articles were reviewed by at least two independent readers. Of 2951 titles identified in our original search, 151 articles were selected for further screening. We identified 19 studies meeting our full criteria, with patients from 55 different nations. Pooled non-AIDS causes of death prevalence estimates in high-income countries were 53.0% (95% confidence interval, 43.6–62.3), in developing countries 34.0% (95% confidence interval, 20.3–49.1), and in sub-Saharan countries 18.5% (95% confidence interval, 13.8–23.7). Statistically significant variation was noted within and between categories. Our findings show that a significant number of people living with HIV across the world die from cardiovascular disease, non-AIDS malignancies, and liver disease. There is a global need for further scrutiny in all regions to improve preventive measures and early detection according to distinct causes of death patterns.
Creativity, Within Reason
Authors: Green Adam E.
Published: February 2016

Human reasoning and creativity represent perhaps the two highest evolutionary reaches of cognition. These two capacities are distinct from each other, but research on creativity in analogical reasoning has identified a point of convergence between them at one of the farthest forward and most recently evolved reaches of the brain. Analogy is a form of relational cognition because analogies form connections that relate otherwise separate concepts. Quantitative tools for measuring the semantic distance between concepts have advanced the measurement of creativity in relational cognition (more creative relational cognition forms connections across greater semantic distance). These tools are especially useful for the emerging neuroscience of creativity. I describe this semantic-distance approach and how it is being leveraged in my laboratory and elsewhere to investigate not only differences in creative ability between individuals but also creativity as a dynamic state that varies across time within an individual.
Darwin, music and evolution: New insights from family correspondence on The Descent of Man
Authors: Bannan Nicholas
Published: February 2016

The impression has formed in the literature dealing with Darwin’s life and achievement that he was himself unmusical, and that his theories have offered little help in understanding or valuing the role of music in human society. This article draws on biographical information relating to Darwin’s family and household to illustrate that he was in fact surrounded by music throughout his life. While Darwin’s deterioration in health may have reduced his ability to appreciate music in later life, he was clearly much involved in music as a young man. He also employed music in several of his experiments in animal behaviour, involving members of his family as co-researchers. A close reading of The Descent of Man that forms the central focus of this article illustrates the extent to which, throughout the book, Darwin made reference to musical behaviours in defining and illustrating his themes of natural and sexual selection. Ensuing correspondence with his sons consulted in the Darwin Archive at Cambridge University Library conveys the difficulty he had in dealing fully with music as a human capacity in its own right. However, far from his having little to say about music, Darwin’s theories of natural and sexual selection robustly define the research agenda for exploring the purpose of music and its relation to language: a project that recent developments in neurology, anthropology and linguistics have begun to reveal in a new light.
Cognitive–Behavioral Therapies for Young People in Outpatient Treatment for Nonopioid Drug Use
Authors: Filges Trine , Jorgensen Anne-Marie Klint
Published: February 2016

Objectives:

This review evaluates the evidence on the effects of cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT) on drug use reduction for young people in treatment for nonopioid drug use.

Method:

We followed Campbell Collaboration guidelines to conduct a systematic review of randomized and nonrandomized trials. Meta-analytic methods were used to quantitatively synthesize study results.

Results:

The search yielded seven studies that met inclusion criteria. Each of the seven studies compared CBT to another intervention.

Authors’ Conclusions:

The review found that there was no evidence that CBT interventions perform better or worse than the comparison interventions and additional research is needed. The number of studies included in this review was limited, and therefore should the overall results be interpreted with caution.
Active vibration control of structures using a leader–follower-based consensus design
Authors: Omidi Ehsan , Mahmoodi S Nima
Published: February 2016

This paper proposes a new leader–follower-based consensus vibration controller to actively suppress unwanted oscillations in distributed-parameter flexible structures. Actuation and sensing is performed via piezoelectric layers in a collocated sense. The actuator/sensor patches for the vibration control system are considered to collaborate in a network, and follow a virtual leader which is accessible to all agents. Hence, a vibration controller law is defined, to remove disagreement between agents and force the agents to follow the virtual leader. The proposed approach is an observer-based design, in which an optimal consensus state estimator is initially designed. Stability of the closed-loop system is investigated and the optimality conditions of the system are derived. Although the designed vibration controller could be implemented for suppression tasks in different distributed-parameter systems, a flexible clamped-clamped beam is used here for equation derivation and numerical performance verification. According to the results, the optimal observer estimates the system states in a finite time, as expected, and the vibration controller suppresses unwanted oscillations, either in resonant or arbitrary form, to a much lower level; while the disagreement between agents converges to zero. Additionally, suppression performance and robustness of the controller to failure in control system elements is investigated in comparison with a conventional positive position feedback controller, and its superiority is illustrated and discussed.
Noteworthy Literature in Cardiac Surgery 2015
Authors: Reece T. Brett , Cleveland Joseph C.
Published: February 2016

In 2015, the cardiac literature has pushed for change in cardiac practice. The areas are evolving quickly based on new technology, ranging from percutaneous valves in the aortic position to mechanical support. The new devices in both these fields are changing the way patients are cared for very quickly. Another topic evolving is temperature management in aortic arch cases. This field is being pushed more by the threat of endovascular technology creeping into the arch than technology directly causing change in care. But that threat is real and inevitable. Finally, the discussion about optimal conduits is unending in coronary bypass grafting. A new algorithm has been proposed for utilization of more arterial grafts; however, there remains trepidation in changing from more vein grafts. Furthermore, those pushing for more arterial grafting seem to be black and white about these approaches rather than using what is best for the patient. These topics, among others, have made the literature from cardiac surgery in 2015 worth reading.
Ninth Triennial Toxicology Salary Survey
Authors: Gad Shayne Cox , Sullivan Dexter Wayne
Published: February 2016

This survey serves as the ninth in a series of toxicology salary surveys conducted at 3-year intervals and beginning in 1988. An electronic survey instrument was distributed to 5919 individuals including members of the Society of Toxicology, American College of Toxicology, and 23 additional professional organizations. Question items inquired about gender, age, degree, years of experience, certifications held, areas of specialization, society membership, employment and income. Overall, 1293 responses were received (response rate 21.8%). The results of the 2014 survey provide insight into the job market and career path for current and future toxicologists.
Clinical characterisation of polydactyly in Maine Coon cats
Authors: Hamelin Alexia , Begon Dominique , Conchou Fabrice , Fusellier Marion , Abitbol Marie
Published: February 2016

Objectives

Polydactyly has been reported in a number of vertebrate species, including the domestic cat. It is a common characteristic in some breeding lines of the Maine Coon. The aim of this study was to assess the limb phenotype of polydactyl cats using physical and radiographic examinations.

Methods

We used physical examination and radiography to characterise the polydactyly phenotype in a cohort of 70 Maine Coon cats, including 48 polydactyl cats from four different breeding lines from Europe, Canada and the USA.

Results

The phenotypic expression of polydactyly showed great variability, not only in digit number and conformation, but also in the structure of the carpus and tarsus. Comparison of the size of the radius in polydactyl and non-polydactyl 3-month-old kittens and adult females did not reveal any difference between polydactyl and non-polydactyl cats.

Conclusions and relevance

We conclude that polydactyly in Maine Coon cats is characterised by broad phenotypic diversity. Polydactyly not only affects digit number and conformation, but also carpus and tarsus conformation, with no apparent deleterious consequence on feline welfare.
Revisiting the 4-M model: Codeswitching and morpheme election at the abstract level
Authors: Myers-Scotton Carol M , Jake Janice L
Published: February 2016

Purpose:

This paper offers an overview of the 4-M model from its inception, but pays special attention to how the characterization of morpheme types in the model has evolved. A new proposal is that the level at which morpheme types are “elected” in an abstract model of language production is a critical factor in predicting morpheme distribution across languages in bilingual data.

Methodology:

A new addition to the model, the Variable Election Hypothesis, predicts which language is likely to be the source of morphemes in certain structures in bilingual speech, based on how they are elected.

Data and analysis:

Data from available codeswitching literature illustrate the classification of morphemes according to the 4-M model and test this new hypothesis. Much of the analysis focuses on the role of Embedded Language nonfinite verb forms and the structure of mixed determiner phrases (DPs), as well as subordinators in codeswitching data.

Findings:

Both the 4-M model and the Variable Election Hypothesis make predictions for the source and relative frequency of morpheme types observed in the codeswitching literature. The paper provides evidence that, in bilingual constituents in codeswitching, the frequency of certain morpheme types depends on how they are elected at an abstract level of language production.

Originality:

The emphasis on the abstract nature of morphemes constitutes a new approach to studying language contact.

Implications:

These predictions could also apply to other types of contact data, such as borrowing and creole development.
Economic Considerations on Avoiding Implant Removals after Fracture Fixation by Using Absorbable Devices
Authors: Böstman Ole
Published: February 2016

Pins and screws for internal fracture fixation made of absorbable polymers have been available since the latter half of the 1980s. When using these implants there is no need for a subsequent implant removal operation. During the 7-year period 1985–1991, a total of 1219 patients were treated with such absorbable fixation devices, the most common indications being displaced malleolar fractures of the ankle and fractures of the radial head. Considering the economic viewpoints, the high acquisition costs of the absorbable implants partially outweighed the benefit of avoiding all removal procedures. When all costs also for the implant removal procedure after metallic fixation were included, the average cost saved per patient by using absorbable implants in a trimalleolar fracture was FIM 2023 (4.4% of the total costs). However, the removal of metallic devices is in fact to some degree optional, and in case the metallic implants were not removed, the economic result was in favor of the metallic devices by FIM 3684 per patient. Consequently, the ultimate economic audit of the use of absorbable vs. metallic devices is linearly dependent on the actual implant removal frequency. According to the present cost analysis, the break-even point would be attained at a removal rate of 65% in trimalleolar ankle fractures, at 51% in uni-and bimallcolar fractures and at 30% in fractures of the radial head. Only at a higher removal rate the introduction of absorbable devices would be a financially more favorable alternative.
Quality of care for infertility patients. An evaluation of a plan for a hospital investigation
Authors: Sundby Johanne , Olsen Anne , Schei Berit
Published: February 2016

Aim of study. In this study we assessed the quality of health care for infertile patients as expressed by the patients themselves. The implementation of the existing structured plan for infertility investigation and treatment was also reviewed. Design and data. The sample consisted of all 361 women registered with an infertility diagnosis during 1982 at Riks-hospitalet. Their medical records were reviewed in 1988. The process and outcome of the investigation as it appeared was analyzed for each individual patient. A structured questionnaire was distributed to the patients in 1988 and 72.6% responded. The questions included several items on outcome and personal experience of the treatment in the hospital. Results. Data from the medical records show that the medical investigation lasted three years on average. The records often showed evidence of discontinuity of the process. The mean number of consultations was eight (range 1–28). An average of one new doctor for each consultation was involved in the investigation. One third of the patients left the investigation without a noted definite termination of the treatment process. According to the questionnaire around 40% had delivered at least one child, while 30% had adopted. Of those who got a biological child, two thirds were satisfied with the clinical treatment efforts of the medical staff. Less than half of those who did not become pregnant were satisfied. Independent of outcome, 70% were dissatisfied with the emotional support during the investigations, and nearly 90% felt that waiting lists were too long. More than half expressed a need for professional psychological counselling.

Conclusions. The study shows that medical records and service organizations do not meet the need for continuity in treatment nor research and evaluation requirements. We suggest that more emphasis should be devoted to planning of the services. They should be improved with regard to quality in medical handling as well as emotional counselling.
Epidemiological Analysis of Serious Occupational Accidents in Southern Finland
Authors: Salminen Simo T.
Published: February 2016

The aims of this article were, on the one hand, to indicate the risk groups exposed to serious occupational accidents and, on the other hand, to examine what makes serious occupational accidents ‘serious'. We compared the data on 99 serious occupational accidents gathered by ourselves to the information from official statistics. The results showed that the risk of a serious accident was highest for a man working in the manufacturing industry, at a construction site, or in transporting, and who was in his first year of service. Typical serious occupational accidents were falls from heights, accidents with machines, and getting run over by moving vehicles. The most general injuries were fractures, loss of extremities, and injuries to internal organs. Serious occupational accidents differ from minor accidents as regards type of accident and injured part of the body.
Pre-hacked: Open Design and the democratisation of product development
Authors: Richardson Mark
Published: February 2016

This article considers the practice of hacking in terms of making and modifying three-dimensional objects. In line with the work of a number of prominent thinkers in the field, the practice is considered to be a deliberate act by end users to not only understand, make accessible, de-alienate, appropriate and personalise products but also to demystify what Latour refers to as the ‘black box’ effect of established product archetypes. Where hacking is typically considered a post-production process, it is argued here that upfront, design-led approaches intended to harness downstream end-user post-production hacking (pre-hack) are in line with Jones’ call from over three decades ago for design divergence and continuity through collaborative processes – which we now find in the field of Open Design. This is discussed in light of the broader context of sustainability, which needs innovation from the ground up as well as top down.
Adjournments during TV watching: A closer look into the organisation of continuing states of incipient talk
Authors: Ergül Hatice
Published: February 2016

This article examines how participants collaboratively achieve projection of adjournments in TV audience interaction in Turkish. Adjournments are lapses in continuing states of incipient talk (CSIT) when the participants are not just talking but engaged in another activity. Adjournments during CSIT are neither attributable silences nor are they treated as accountable by the participants. Adopting the ethnomethodological tool of conversation analysis, the article reveals two types of episodes of talk in TV audience interaction: (1) adjacency pairs and (2) extended sequences. In adjacency pairs, an adjournment is projected through absence of mutual gaze and providing minimal agreements. In extended sequences, however, gaze aversion and demonstrable establishment of mutual alignment (e.g. using proverbial expression) are employed by the participants to hold the transition relevance place and project adjournments.
Topic continuation strategies employed by teachers in managing supportive conversations on Facebook Timeline
Authors: Rashid Radzuwan Ab
Published: February 2016

This article is part of a larger study on teachers’ co-construction of social support on a social networking site. The aim of this article is to elucidate how a topic introduced in the Facebook Status updates are negotiated with/by Friends through the Comment function. Adopting discourse topic management as its theoretical framework, the article presents the findings related to topical action of continuing topic observed in the Comments on Timelines, which reflects the strong presence of support on the site in the sense that Friends show their interest in taking up the topic. The analysis shows that strategies for continuing topics in face-to-face conversations are creatively employed by teachers on Timelines and this leads to the emergence of unique characteristics of this new mode of online interaction. In this respect, this article contributes to the expansion of discourse topic theory by highlighting the characteristics of Timeline conversations that emerged from the analysis of topic continuation.
The Structure and Theme of First Corinthians in Recent Scholarship
Authors: Malcolm Matthew R.
Published: February 2016

There is currently no consensus on the arrangement or central theme of Paul’s First Epistle to the Corinthians. However, numerous suggestions have been put forward in the last three decades, including a number of very recent contributions. The approaches taken include regarding the letter primarily as compilation, Hellenistic epistle, rhetorical speech-letter, theological critique, Jewish argumentation, ring composition, gospel exhortation, and topical discourse. A number of these perspectives overlap. This article surveys these approaches, provides tabulated summaries of their analyses, and indicates areas of broad agreement in current research.
Pragmatism and Pluralism Revisited
Authors: Aikin Scott F , Talisse Robert B
Published: February 2016

In 2005, we published a jointly authored article arguing that pragmatists must reject pluralism. As certain pragmatists describe themselves as pluralists, the essay received its share of criticism; however, no response has succeeded in defeating the essay’s argument. Nonetheless, contemporary classical pragmatists persist in embracing the term. Something’s amiss. In this article, we defend a conclusion that differs importantly from that of the 2005 paper. We will show that pragmatism is consistent with a view that we call modest epistemological pluralism. Thus, pragmatists can be pluralists. However, contemporary classicalists should beware. Our argument shows that pragmatism and pluralism are consistent, not that they are intrinsically allied. More importantly, the modest epistemological pluralism is not the pluralism that contemporary classicalists seem most eager to embrace. The argument proceeds in six steps. First, we dispense with a common but unacceptable conception of pluralism. Second, we identify what pluralism must assert. Third, we distinguish different varieties of pluralism. Fourth, we argue that pragmatists must reject all pluralisms except for what we term modest epistemological pluralism. Fifth, we discuss the prospects for pragmatist-friendly modest epistemological pluralism. Finally, we address the concern that modest epistemological pluralism is not practically distinguishable from monism.
Type IIIb Endoleak and Relining
Authors: Swaelens Charles , Poole Robert J. , Torella Francesco , McWilliams Richard G. , England Andrew , Fisher Robert K.
Published: February 2016

Purpose: To examine the changes in distraction force following relining of a conventional abdominal aortic stent-graft with a type IIIb endoleak using the Nellix endovascular sealing device compared to a unilateral stent-graft. Methods: Relining is often used to repair type IIIb endoleaks, but the consequences to graft stability are unknown. A mathematical model was constructed based on pressure and volume flow through the stent-grafts, incorporating recognized distraction force equations. Steady flow was presumed at peak systolic pressures to calculate the maximum distraction force, with gravity ignored. Distraction forces for 28- to 36-mm-diameter stent-graft bodies with 16-mm limbs were calculated and compared to forces following relining with single and double Nellix devices or the Renu unilateral device. Results: Distraction forces for the 28-, 32-, and 36-mm stent-grafts prior to relining were 5.99, 10.21, and 14.99 N, respectively. Similar forces were reported after relining with bilateral Nellix devices (5.86, 10.08, and 14.86 N, respectively). However, use of a unilateral Nellix increased the distraction forces to 9.92, 14.14, and 18.92 N, respectively. These were comparable to the increase observed after relining with a Renu unilateral stent-graft (9.87, 14.09, and 18.86 N, respectively). The proportional increase in distraction force for a unilateral relining ranged from 26% to 66%, with the greatest increase noted in the smaller diameter main bodies. Conclusion: Relining a stent-graft with a type IIIb endoleak using bilateral Nellix devices does not increase the distraction force. However, a unilateral Nellix device or the Renu system could theoretically increase the distraction force by up to 66%, potentially risking migration and type Ia endoleak. In clinical practice, these results suggest that a relining with bilateral Nellix may have benefits over the Renu unilateral stent-graft.