jbas

Journal of Basic & Applied Sciences

Feline Cancer Prevalence in South Africa (1998 – 2005): Contrasts with the Rest of the World
Pages 370-380
Anthony B. Zambelli

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.6000/1927-5129.2015.11.53

Published: 16 June 2015

Open Access

Abstract:  A paucity of information exists on the relative proportions, incidences or outcomes of diagnosis and treatment of feline cancer in South Africa. Standard texts of veterinary oncology quote data from the Northern hemisphere, and geographic differences are apparent. In this retrospective analysis, the electronic medical database of the Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital was analysed for feline cancer felines admissions for the period 1998 – 2005 (n = 100 out of N = 12,893 feline admissions, or 0.78% of total feline admissions). The average and median age of feline cancer felines was 7 and 9.5 years respectively. In contrast to published reports of US, Australian and European data where lymphosarcoma is the most common cancer affecting cats, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) forms the predominant neoplasm (48% of all tumours). White or part-white cats were overrepresented in this group, which is consistent with greater ultraviolet light exposure. Lymphoma was the second most common diagnosis, followed by various carcinomas and adenocarcinomas. A large proportion (54%) of felines received some form of treatment.

Keywords: Feline, cancer, prevalence, South Africa, squamous cell carcinoma, lymphosarcoma. 

Download Full Article

Journal of Basic & Applied Sciences

Demographic and Anthropometric Variables Related to Longevity: Results from a Greek Centenarians’ Study
Pages 381-388
Christina Darviri, Panagiotis Pelekasis, Michael Galanakis and Xanthi Tigani

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.6000/1927-5129.2015.11.54

Published: 16 June 2015

Open Access

Abstract:  Centenarian research contributes to expanding our knowledge on longevity and healthy aging. In Greece, a variety of studies have been conducted in order to explore exceptional longevity. This is a retrospective study of 106 centenarians employing both quantitative and qualitative measures in order to explore centenarians own perspective on longevity. Basic socio demographic and life style variables where associated with centenarians beliefs and perceptions about their longevity. The majority of centenarians attributed their longevity to God and to living a good life overall. God and social networks were reported as their main source of strength in order to continue living. Gender differences were also evident as male centenarians reported non abusive behaviors and a sense of having a measure in daily living, as well as nutrition as their main source of longevity, while female emphasized on God and social networks. Gender differences on Body Mass Index and Smoking are also evident. Centenarians own perception of longevity could be further explored and findings could be incorporated in future research and intervention programs aiming at healthy longevity.

Keywords: Centenarians, longevity, Greek Population, aging.

Download Full Article

Journal of Basic & Applied Sciences

Seeing through New Eyes: An Experimental Investigation of the Benefits of Photography
Pages 354-358
Jaime L. Kurtz

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.6000/1927-5129.2015.11.51

Published: 03 June 2015

Open Access

Abstract:This study examined the affective and cognitive benefits of taking photographs of one’s everyday surroundings. Thirty-eight undergraduate participants were randomly assigned to either take photographs in a mindful, creative way; take photographs in a neutral, factual way; or do a count-your-blessings writing exercise, an activity that is known to reliably increase mood [1]. Planned contrasts revealed that those taking mindful, creative photographs were, on average, in a significantly better mood and were significantly more appreciative and motivated than those taking neutral photographs. There were no significant differences between either photography condition and the writing activity. These results suggest that, when done thoughtfully, photography can be an effective way of improving mood and appreciation of everyday life.

Keywords: Happiness, savoring, appreciation, well-being, emotion, positive psychology.
Download Full Article

Journal of Basic & Applied Sciences

Purple in a Black & White World: Self-Determination Theory and Transgender Military Service
Pages  359-369
David A. Levy, James E. Parco and Sarah R. Spears

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.6000/1927-5129.2015.11.52

Published: 03 June 2015

Open Access

Abstract: We offer a theoretical framework to advance our understanding of the psychology of transgender service members—the most understudied and mysterious class of US military personnel. Using grounded theory methods with interview data collected from clandestinely-serving active-duty, guard and reserve military members from the US Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps who self-identified as transgender or transsexual, we reveal a latent structure of Self Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985; Deci & Ryan, 2000; Ryan & Deci, 2000). The variance in our data heavily centers around the concepts of autonomy, competence and relatedness, illustrating how post-DADT military personnel policy, which excludes open transgender service, impacts the mental well-being of transgender service members.

The study does not address the issue of the use of erectile dysfunction drugs by transgender people, since this topic cannot be correctly considered without analyzing the prices of generic Cialis.

Keywords: Transgender, transsexual, LGBT, interviews, self-determination, competence, relatedness, autonomy.
Download Full Article