bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Female Suicide and Wife Abuse: A Cross‐Cultural Perspective
Authors: Counts Dorothy Ayers
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Data from a number of societies, including North America, indicate that wife abuse may be one of the most significant precipitants of female suicide. Anthropological analysis indicates that in some societies female suicide is a culturally recognized behavior that enables the weak to influence the strong and/or take revenge on those who oppress them. Case studies from West New Britain Province in Papua New Guinea and comparisons with data from other societies suggest that if a woman's support group does not defend her when she is the victim of violence that passes the bounds of normative behavior, her suicide may be revenge suicide, intended to force others to take vengeance on the abusive husband. Research focused on the relationship between domestic violence and female suicide should be a priority of anthropologists as well as suicidologists.
Suicide Attempts in Preadolescent Child Psychiatry Inpatients
Authors: Asarnow Joan Rosenbaum , Carlson Gabrielle
Published: December 2015

This paper describes a preliminary study examining the relative power of measures of perceived family support, hopelessness, and depression for the classification of suicide attempters and nonattempters in a series of 8‐ to 13‐year‐old psychiatric inpatients. Results of a stepwise discriminant‐function analysis indicated that a measure of a child's perceived family support discriminated between suicide attempters and nonattempters with an 88% accuracy rate. The addition of measures of hopelessness and depression at later steps did not lead to improved classification. The results are interpreted as providing strong support for a link between suicide attempts in children and perceptions of low family support.
What Right to Die?
Authors: Weber Walter M.
Published: December 2015

This letter first discusses two meanings of a “right to die.” In the popular sense, the term refers to a right to refuse life‐sustaining treatment. In the strict sense, the term signifies an affirmative right to obtain death—a right to suicide.

The letter then explores the legal implications of a suicide right. This right would extend to competent adults, mature minors, and probably also incompetent persons. Counselors would have to inform clients of the suicide option. Intervention to prevent suicide could trigger civil liability. Suicidal intentions would not justify involuntary commitment. Consent would become a defense to homicide.
Suicidal Asian Patients: Recommendations for Treatment
Authors: Takahashi Yoshitomo
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: I was given an opportunity to learn how suicide prevention programs are administered in the United States. Not surprisingly, treatment for suicidal patients is conducted in terms of the basic tenets of Western culture. When American therapists are seeing Asian patients, especially suicidal individuals who are regressed and show cultural characteristics, the therapists should be aware of the importance of cultural differences. This report discusses recommendations for treating suicidal Asian patients.
Attitudes toward Suicide: A Comparison of Canadian and U.S. College Students
Authors: Domino George , Leenaars Antoon A.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The Suicide Opinion Questionnaire (SOQ) was administered to two samples (n = 100 each) of college students, one from Canada and one from the United States. A multivariate analysis of variance indicated substantial intergroup differences, but no sex differences. Univariate analyses indicated significant differences on 8 of the 15 SOQ factors, suggesting that Canadian college students perceive suicide as part of everyday life, not to be explained by recourse to religious, personality, or psychopathological constructs. The results are discussed in terms of six themes present in the suicide literature: motivation, acceptability, religion, impulsivity, recidivism, and misconceptions. Speculation is also provided regarding why such differences (despite considerable similarities) might exist.
The Epidemiology of Suicide in Israel: International and Intranational Comparisons
Authors: Levav I. , Aisenberg E.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: A comparison of overall rates of completed suicide is made between Israel and selected European and North American countries. Rates for Israel are generally lower. A second comparison is made among different national‐religious groups in Israel. Rates are higher for Jews than for the Muslim minority. An explanation is attempted for both sets of findings.
Clinical characteristics associated with esophageal motility function
Authors: Tanaka Yoshimasa , Ihara Eikichi , Nakamura Kazuhiko , Muta Kazumasa , Fukaura Keita , Mukai Koji , Bai Xiaopeng , Takayanagi Ryoichi
Published: December 2015

Background and Aim:

Esophageal motility disorders (EMDs) affect coordinated esophageal contractility. Recent developments in high‐resolution manometry have improved diagnosis of EMDs; however, the etiology of EMDs remains to be determined. This study aimed to determine which clinical characteristics are associated with esophageal motility.

Methods:

From May 2013 to July 2014, 97 patients (54 women, 43 men; age, 16–89 years) with suspected EMDs were assessed by high‐resolution manometry in Kyushu University Hospital. Esophageal motility was evaluated by measuring the distal contractile integral (DCI), basal lower esophageal sphincter pressure, and integrated relaxation pressure (IRP). Data on age, gender, body mass index (BMI), Brinkman Index, and blood tests were retrospectively collected and analyzed.

Results:

Fifty patients were diagnosed as normal, nine with achalasia, twelve with esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction, four with distal esophageal spasm, one with jackhammer esophagus, six with absent peristalsis, ten with frequent failed peristalsis, and five with weak peristalsis. The median DCI was 1229.0 mmHg‐s‐cm, the median basal lower esophageal sphincter pressure was 25.3 mmHg, and the median IRP was 9.6 mmHg. Patients with major motility disorders were excluded from analysis. By multivariate regression analysis, BMI (P = 0.029) and total cholesterol (P = 0.023) were negatively associated with DCI, while BMI (P = 0.007) was negatively associated with IRP and glucose (P = 0.044) was positively associated with IRP.

Conclusions:

Both BMI and total cholesterol could be highly predictive factors for esophageal body contractility, while BMI and glucose could be predictive factors for lower esophageal sphincter contractile function.
Stable staurolite–cordierite assemblages in K‐poor metapelitic schists in Aston and Hospitalet gneiss domes of the central Pyrenees (France, Andorra)
Authors: Mezger J. E. , Régnier J‐L.
Published: December 2015

Staurolite–cordierite assemblages are common in mica schists of the Aston and Hospitalet gneiss domes of the central Axial Zone, Pyrenees (France, Andorra). Within a 200 m wide zone, staurolite, cordierite and andalusite porphyroblasts contain inclusion trails that preserve the same stage of development of a crenulation cleavage, strongly suggesting that all three phases are contemporaneous. Their syntectonic growth occurred during a short period at the beginning of the formation of the dominant schistosity (S2) of the domes. Staurolite and cordierite touching each other further indicates an equilibrium relationship. Whole‐rock analyses show that some staurolite–cordierite schists are depleted in K2O compared to post‐Archean shales (PAAS) and amphibolite facies pelites. Analysis of the st‐crd paragenesis in K‐poor schists without muscovite using KFMASH and MnNCKFMASH petrogentic grids, pseudosections and AFM compatibility diagrams predicts stable conditions at pressures of ~3.5 kbar at 575 °C. For metapelites with intermediate XMg values (0.7 >  XMg >0.48) a ‘muscovite‐out window’ exists from 550–650 °C at 3.5 kbar in the KFMASH system. Conventional thermobarometry (GB‐GASP, AvT‐AvP) and petrogenetic grids show an isobaric P–T path to peak temperatures of ~650 °C, supported by the presence of sillimanite‐K‐feldspar gneiss and migmatites. LP‐HT metamorphism in the Aston dome is related to early Carboniferous (c. 339 Ma) granitic intrusions into the dome core. As metamorphism is directly linked with the formation of the main S2 schistosity, the temporal relations demonstrated in this study conflict with previous studies which constrained LP‐HT metamorphism and the development of flat‐lying schistosity to the late Carboniferous (315–305 Ma) – at least in the eastern Axial Zone.
IL‐1β mediating high mobility group box protein‐1 expression in condylar chondrocyte during temporomandibular joint inflammation
Authors: Li Cheng , Cai Hengxing , Meng Qinggong , Feng Yaping , Guo Huilin , Fang Wei , Long Xing
Published: December 2015

Background

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osteoarthritis(OA)characterized with cartilage degen‐eration is associated with inflammation. High mobility group box chromosomal protein‐1(HMGB‐1)is a potent mediator of inflammation and the trigger of OA. The expression of HMGB‐1 in TMJ OA was uncovered, but the role of HMGB‐1 in TMJ cartilage degeneration is not fully understood. In this study, the regulation of HMGB‐1 in TMJ condylar cartilage was revealed.

Methods

A complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)‐induced TMJ inflammation animal model was employed and the expression of HMGB‐1 was detected at 1st, 2nd, and 6th weeks by immunohistochemistry. TMJ condylar chondrocytes were incubated with IL‐1β (10 and 40 ng/ml) at 24, 48, and 72 h, and the translocation and protein level of HMGB‐1 were evaluated by immunofluorescence and Western blot.

Result

Nuclear HMGB‐1 staining was predominantly located in chondrocytes of both the fibrosis and proliferative zones in healthy TMJ. 1st week and 2nd week after CFA injection, immunoreaction could be detected in the cytoplasms of HMGB‐1‐positive cells and cartilage matrix especially in hypertrophic zone. At 6th week after CFA injection, cartilage matrix expression was disappeared and the cytoplasm expression of HMGB‐1 was very weak in hypertrophic zone. HMGB‐1 was translocated from the nucleus to the cytoplasm at 48 h after incubated with IL‐1β (10 ng/ml and 40 ng/ml). The protein level of HMGB‐1 was increased after stimulation and had a peak at 48 h.

Conclusion

HMGB‐1 might be associated with TMJ inflammation and OA. Insight into the role of HMGB‐1 in TMJ inflammation is helpful to add the new knowledge into the pathogenesis of TMJ OA.
Trifolium pratense isoflavones improve pulmonary vascular remodelling in broiler chickens
Authors: Jiang Y. B. , Yang Y. R.
Published: December 2015

Pulmonary arterial remodelling is a pathological characteristic of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), which contributes to the development of sustained pulmonary hypertension. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary Trifolium pratense isoflavones on pulmonary vascular remodelling in experimental broiler pulmonary hypertension syndrome. Exposure to sub‐thermoneutral environmental temperatures increased broiler's pulmonary hypertension syndrome incidence and raised expression levels of nitric oxide, endothelin and endothelial nitric oxide synthase. Dietary supplementation (20 mg/kg basal diet) with Trifolium pratense isoflavones reduced pulmonary hypertension syndrome incidence and improved pulmonary vascular remodelling without affecting growth performance. The beneficial effect likely came from isoflavone improved pulmonary vascular remodelling. Isoflavone induced inducible nitric oxide synthase expression, which led to increased nitric oxide level. The nitric oxide could mediate vasorelaxation in the lungs. At the same time, the expression of endothelin was downregulated by isoflavone. Dietary supplementation of Trifolium pratense isoflavone might be a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension.
Uptake of manganese from manganese–lysine complex in the primary rat intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Zhang H. , Gilbert E. R. , Zhang K. , Ding X. , Luo Y. , Wang J. , Zeng Q. , Bai S.
Published: December 2015

This study was conducted to compare the differences of the uptake of Mn from Mn–lysine complex (MnLys) and MnSO4 and to determine the potential mechanisms of the uptake of Mn from MnLys. We first established the primary rat intestinal epithelial cell culture model and used it to determine the uptake of Mn from different Mn sources. The MnLys increased (p < 0.001) Mn uptake when compared to MnSO4. The uptake of Mn decreased (p < 0.05) with added Fe concentration increasing in the medium regardless of Mn source. The MnLys decreased (p < 0.01) Mn2+ efflux transporter ferroportin 1 (FPN1) mRNA level, but did not influence (p > 0.06) Mn2+ influx transporter DMT1 mRNA expression when compared to MnSO4. The results above indicated that the increase of Mn accumulation for MnLys at least partly was due to the decrease of Mn efflux by reduced FPN1 expression. The N‐ethylmaleimide, as an l‐lysine transport system y+ inhibitor, decreased (p < 0.001) the uptake of Mn from MnLys, but did not affect (p > 0.10) the uptake of Mn from MnSO4. The cycloheximide, as an l‐lysine transport system b0,+ activator, increased (p < 0.001) the uptake of Mn from MnLys, whereas also did not influence the uptake of Mn from MnSO4. The MnLys increased (p < 0.01) the system y+ member cationic amino acid transporter (CAT) 1, and system b0,+ components rBAT and b0,+AT mRNA expression when compared to MnSO4. These results suggested that the uptake of Mn from MnLys complex might be transported by CAT1 and system b0,+, which was different from ionized Mn2+ uptake pathway. In conclusion, the uptake of MnLys complex not only might be absorbed as Mn2+, but also appeared to be transported through CAT1 and system b0,+ in the primary rat intestinal epithelial cells.
Implementation of the Bedside Paediatric Early Warning System (BedsidePEWS) for nurse identification of deteriorating patients
Authors: Kaul Molly , Snethen Julia , Kelber Sheryl T. , Zimmanck Kim , Maletta Kristin , Meyer Michael
Published: December 2015

Purpose

The purpose was to explore nurses' and physicians' recognition of signs of deterioration and management of symptoms.

Design and Methods

This descriptive, cross‐sectional study used an electronic survey with 35 nurses and 17 physicians.

Results

Nurses using the Bedside Paediatric Early Warning System (BedsidePEWS) were significantly more likely to recognize risk for deterioration and respond with appropriate interventions. Physicians incorporating BedsidePEWS were more likely to choose reliable indicators of deterioration and reported significantly more effective communication from nurses to identify deterioration.

Practice Implications

BedsidePEWS may improve nurses' and physicians' abilities to recognize early signs of patient deterioration, communicate findings to providers, and plan interventions.
Neuropathological and biochemical criteria to identify acquired Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease among presumed sporadic cases
Authors: Kobayashi Atsushi , Parchi Piero , Yamada Masahito , Mohri Shirou , Kitamoto Tetsuyuki
Published: December 2015

As an experimental model of acquired Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (CJD), we performed transmission studies of sporadic CJD using knock‐in mice expressing human prion protein (PrP). In this model, the inoculation of the sporadic CJD strain V2 into animals homozygous for methionine at polymorphic codon 129 (129 M/M) of the PRNP gene produced quite distinctive neuropathological and biochemical features, that is, widespread kuru plaques and intermediate type abnormal PrP (PrPSc). Interestingly, this distinctive combination of molecular and pathological features has been, to date, observed in acquired CJD but not in sporadic CJD. Assuming that these distinctive phenotypic traits are specific for acquired CJD, we revisited the literature and found two cases showing widespread kuru plaques despite the 129 M/M genotype, in a neurosurgeon and in a patient with a medical history of neurosurgery without dura mater grafting. By Western blot analysis of brain homogenates, we revealed the intermediate type of PrPSc in both cases. Furthermore, transmission properties of brain extracts from these two cases were indistinguishable from those of a subgroup of dura mater graft‐associated iatrogenic CJD caused by infection with the sporadic CJD strain V2. These data strongly suggest that the two atypical CJD cases, previously thought to represent sporadic CJD, very likely acquired the disease through exposure to prion‐contaminated brain tissues. Thus, we propose that the distinctive combination of 129 M/M genotype, kuru plaques, and intermediate type PrPSc, represents a reliable criterion for the identification of acquired CJD cases among presumed sporadic cases.
Role of sympathetic nervous system in rat model of chronic visceral pain
Authors: Gil D. W. , Wang J. , Gu C. , Donello J. E. , Cabrera S. , Al‐Chaer E. D.
Published: December 2015

Background

Changes in central pain modulation have been implicated in generalized pain syndromes such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We have previously demonstrated that reduced descending inhibition unveils a role of sympathoneuronal outflow in decreasing peripheral sensory thresholds, resulting in stress‐induced hyperalgesia. We investigated whether sympathetic nervous system (SNS) exacerbation of pain sensation when central pain inhibition is reduced is relevant to chronic pain disorders using a rat colon irritation (CI) model of chronic visceral hypersensitivity with hallmarks of IBS.

Methods

Rats were treated to a series of colorectal balloon distensions (CRD) as neonates resulting in visceral and somatic hypersensitivity and altered stool function that persists into adulthood. The visceral sensitivity was assessed by recording electromyographic (EMG) responses to CRD. Somatic sensitivity was assessed by paw withdrawal thresholds to radiant heat. The effects on the hypersensitivity of (i) inhibiting sympathoneuronal outflow with pharmacological and surgical interventions and (ii) enhancing the outflow with water avoidance stress (WAS) were tested.

Key Results

The alpha2‐adrenergic agonist, clonidine, and the alpha1‐adrenergic antagonist, prazosin, reduced the visceral hypersensitivity and WAS enhanced the pain. Chemical sympathectomy with guanethidine and surgical sympathectomy resulted in a loss of the chronic visceral hypersensitivity.

Conclusions & Inferences

The results support a role of the SNS in driving the chronic visceral and somatic hypersensitivity seen in CI rats. The findings further suggest that treatments that decrease sympathetic outflow or block activation of adrenergic receptors on sensory nerves could be beneficial in the treatment of generalized pain syndromes.
THE ROLE OF GROUNDWATER‐DEPENDENT ECOSYSTEMS IN GROUNDWATER MANAGEMENT
Authors: ESTEBAN ENCARNA , DINAR ARIEL
Published: December 2015

Ecosystems provide a wide range of services essential for a proper environmental, economic, and social performance. While the estimated global value of ecosystem services in 2014 is very significant, the annual loss of ecosystem services value is alarming. Our paper focuses on groundwater‐dependent ecosystems (GDEs), some very important to society, which are under threat due to groundwater overexploitation. Considering the ecosystem health/status function is essential for sound groundwater regulation policy. The paper assesses the conjunctive management of groundwater and GDEs both in theory and in a relevant case study, using a certain type of an ecosystem health function. The theoretical results demonstrate how the change in the slope values of a general ecosystem health function affects the optimal groundwater management policy. The analysis also suggests a change in groundwater management strategies as a function of the value of the ecosystem. The theoretical findings are corroborated with data from an aquifer in Spain and its associated GDE—the Tablas de Daimiel Wetland. The paper highlights theoretically and empirically the necessity for a better understanding of GDEs behavior. It calls for groundwater regulation to protect these resources.
Informal caregivers and detection of delirium in postacute care: a correlational study of the confusion assessment method (CAM), confusion assessment method–family assessment method (CAM‐FAM) and DSM‐IV criteria
Authors: Flanagan Nina M. , Spencer Gale
Published: December 2015

Objectives

Delirium is a common, serious and potentially life‐threatening syndrome affecting older adults. This syndrome continues to be under‐recognised and under treated by healthcare professionals across all care settings. Older adults who develop delirium have poorer outcomes, higher mortality and higher care costs. The purposes of this study were to correlate the confusion assessment method–family assessment method and confusion assessment method in the detection of delirium in postacute care, to correlate the confusion assessment method–family assessment method and diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders text revision criteria in detection of delirium in postacute care, to determine the prevalence of delirium in postacute care elders and to describe the relationship of level of cognitive impairment and delirium in the postacute care setting. Implications for Practice Delirium is disturbing for patients and caregivers. Frequently . family members want to provide information about their loved one. The use of the CAM‐FAM and CAM can give a more definitive determination of baseline status. Frequent observations using both instruments may lead to better recognition of delirium and implementation of interventions to prevent lasting sequelae.

Methods

Descriptive studies determined the strengths of relationship between the confusion assessment method, confusion assessment method–family assessment method, Mini‐Cog and diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders text revision criteria in detection of delirium in the postacute care setting.

Results

Prevalence of delirium in this study was 35%. The confusion assessment method–family assessment method highly correlates with the confusion assessment method and diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders text revision criteria for detecting delirium in older adults in the postacute care setting. Persons with cognitive impairment are more likely to develop delirium. Family members recognise symptoms of delirium when asked.

Discussion

The confusion assessment method–family assessment method is a valid tool for detection of delirium.

Implications for Practice

Delirium is disturbing for patients and caregivers. Frequently. family members want to provide information about their loved one. The use of the CAM‐FAM and CAM can give a more definitive determination of baseline status. Frequent observations using both instruments may lead to better recognition of delirium and implementation of interventions to prevent lasting sequelae.
A sucrose transporter‐interacting protein disulphide isomerase affects redox homeostasis and links sucrose partitioning with abiotic stress tolerance
Authors: Eggert Erik , Obata Toshihiro , Gerstenberger Anne , Gier Konstanze , Brandt Tobias , Fernie Alisdair R. , Schulze Waltraud , Kühn Christina
Published: December 2015

Sucrose accumulation in leaves in response to various abiotic stresses suggests a specific role of this disaccharide for stress tolerance and adaptation. The high‐affinity transporter StSUT1 undergoes substrate‐induced endocytosis presenting the question as to whether altered sucrose accumulation in leaves in response to stresses is also related to enhanced endocytosis or altered activity of the sucrose transporter. StSUT1 is known to interact with several stress‐inducible proteins; here we investigated whether one of the interacting candidates, StPDI1, affects its subcellular localization in response to stress: StPDI1 expression is induced by ER‐stress and salt. Both proteins, StSUT1 and StPDI1, were found in the detergent resistant membrane (DRM) fraction, and this might affect internalization. Knockdown of StPDI1 expression severely affects abiotic stress tolerance of transgenic potato plants. Analysis of these plants does not reveal modified subcellular localization or endocytosis of StSUT1, but rather a disturbed redox homeostasis, reduced detoxification of reactive oxygen species and effects on primary metabolism.

Parallel observations with other StSUT1‐interacting proteins are discussed. The redox status in leaves seems to be linked to the sugar status in response to various stress stimuli and to play a role in stress tolerance.
Usefulness of two interferon‐γ release assays for rheumatic disease
Authors: Nozawa Tomo , Mori Masaaki , Nishimura Kenichi , Sakurai Nodoka , Kikuchi Masako , Hara Ryoki , Yokota Shumpei
Published: December 2015

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of two interferon‐γ release assays (IGRA), QuantiFERON‐TB Gold In‐Tube (QFT‐GIT) and T‐SPOT.TB, for pediatric patients with rheumatic disease in Japan and to analyze the frequencies of indeterminate test results with these kits.

Methods

An IGRA was performed in 108 patients <20 years old in order to exclude tuberculosis infection at the time of first application of or change of biological agents and immunosuppressants in Yokohama City University Hospital.

Results

None of the 108 patients tested had active tuberculosis during the 50 month observation period. Indeterminate results of QFT‐GIT and T‐SPOT.TB tests were obtained in 9.9% and in 0% of cases, respectively. Indeterminate results were obtained significantly more frequently in patients on prednisolone >0.5 mg/kg and in patients with active underlying disease. Use of biologicals and other immunosuppressants had no effect on these measurements.

Conclusions

IGRA are very useful for excluding tuberculosis infection in patients with rheumatic disease before starting new immunosuppressant therapy. Furthermore, the T‐SPOT.TB test was suitable for evaluating latent tuberculosis infection even under immunosuppression, when TB tests are generally hard to perform.
Geochemical Fingerprint and Iron Ore Potential of the Siliceous Itabirite from Palaeoproterozoic Nyong Series, Zambi Area, Southwestern Cameroon
Authors: Ganno Sylvestre , Moudioh Cyriel , Nzina Nchare Adjija , Kouankap Nono Gus Djibril , Nzenti Jean Paul
Published: December 2015

The study area forms part of an emerging iron ore province of southern Cameroon. Geochemistry analyses reveal that the siliceous itabirite has a very simple chemical composition, with Fe2O3 and SiO2 representing more than 96 wt.% of the average composition; suggesting chemical precipitates of silica and iron. Low Al2O3 and TiO2 concentrations and a weak positive correlation between them point to a minor detrital component in the precipitated marine sediments. The Si/Al ratio (average 52.7) indicates the hydrothermal origin of the studied itabirite. The Al–Si discrimination diagram supports this interpretation through the plot of all data in the hydrothermal field. The studied samples have low iron content (about 39.32% Fe), high gangue content (40.97% SiO2 and 1.3 % Al2O3) and low concentration of the deleterious elements (0.16 % P and < 0.01% S). The main gangue mineral is silica which can be efficiently removed from iron ores during preparation of raw materials for the blast furnace process. According to commercial standards for crude iron ores, it may be concluded that the Zambi iron ores are a low‐grade magnetic ore that can be profitably exploited for the production of iron for steel production.
Effects of hamstring stretching on passive muscle stiffness vary between hip flexion and knee extension maneuvers
Authors: Miyamoto N. , Hirata K. , Kanehisa H.
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine whether the effects of hamstring stretching on the passive stiffness of each of the long head of the biceps femoris (BFl), semitendinosus (ST), and semimembranosus (SM) vary between passive knee extension and hip flexion stretching maneuvers. In 12 male subjects, before and after five sets of 90 s static stretching, passive lengthening measurements where knee or hip joint was passively rotated to the maximal range of motion (ROM) were performed. During the passive lengthening, shear modulus of each muscle was measured by ultrasound shear wave elastography. Both stretching maneuvers significantly increased maximal ROM and decreased passive torque at a given joint angle. Passive knee extension stretching maneuver significantly reduced shear modulus at a given knee joint angle in all of BFl, ST, and SM. In contrast, the stretching effect by passive hip flexion maneuver was significant only in ST and SM. The present findings indicate that the effects of hamstring stretching on individual passive muscles’ stiffness vary between passive knee extension and hip flexion stretching maneuvers. In terms of reducing the muscle stiffness of BFl, stretching of the hamstring should be performed by passive knee extension rather than hip flexion.
CORPUS LUTEUM EXTRACTS AND OVULATION IN THE RABBIT
Authors: Kennedy Walter P.
Published: December 2015

1. A substance, or substances, can be extracted in the cold from the corpus luteum of the cow, in the fresh or desiccated state, which inhibits ovulation in the rabbit, if injected intravenously in sufficient dosage.

2. Long‐continued dosage with these extracts may be correlated with more or less marked degenerative changes in the ovary, and to a progressively less degree in the liver and adrenal glands, none being observed in the kidney.

3. In the experimental animals in which the point was tested, ability to ovulate was not recovered in three months from the cessation of treatment.

4. The fertility of the male controls was not impaired by parallel treatment.

5. The toxic effects produced were insufficient to cause convulsions or death.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE ELASTIC TISSUE OF THE HUMAN FŒTUS
Authors: Hewer Evelyn E.
Published: December 2015

The wide distribution and early appearance of tissue with a great affinity for elastin stains indicates that this type of tissue plays an important part in the functional development of many organs; its appearance is in certain cases correlated with the time at which functioning of the organ begins.

This work was undertaken during the course of an investigation on the human fœtus which is being carried out jointly with Professor M. L.
Lucas Keene, and for which we beg to acknowledge a grant from the Thomas Smythe Hughes Medical Research Fund of the University of London. I also have to thank the Medical Research Council for a grant in aid.
STUDIES ON THE PITUITARY.—V. THE AVINE DEPRESSOR RESPONSE
Authors: Hogben Lancelot T.
Published: December 2015

The substance present in pituitary extracts causing a powerful depressor response in the bird is a specific property of the fresh gland substance : it does not belong to the category of capillary poisons common to extracts of many tissues, and in particular has no connection with the histamine‐like substance responsible for the secondary fall in Carnivora. It appears to be associated, like the pressor (mammalian) substance, pre‐eminently with the pars nervosa rather than with the pars inter media ; and is present in the pituitary of Fishes, Amphibia, Reptiles, Birds, and Mammals. Like the oxytocic, pressor, and melanophore stimulants, it is readily soluble in water, insoluble in ethyl alcohol, stable at the boiling‐point of water, and readily inactivated by trypsin and alkali.
THE REACTIONS OF THE PUPIL IN THE CHLORALOSED ANIMAL
Authors: M'Dowall R. J. S.
Published: December 2015

The reactions of the pupil in the chloralosed animal are described, and evidence is put forward which indicates that they may be used as an index of sensation not only from areas supplied by the spinal nerves, but also from those supplied by the autonomic nervous system. Light is thrown on the so‐called sensitisation of the pupil by removal of the superior cervical sympathetic ganglion. The afferent impulses from the heart are shown to pass, at least partly, by way of the spinal cord.
THE MODE OF ACTION OF VERITOL
Authors: Reis August
Published: December 2015

1. The rise of blood‐pressure produced by veritol is due to two factors: (a) vasoconstriction, and (b) increased volume output per beat of the heart. Veritol (unlike adrenaline) causes only slight cardiac acceleration.

2. The vasoconstrictor action of veritol can be demonstrated easily on perfused limbs, provided that blood is used for perfusion and the preparation is in good condition.

3. Veritol sometimes causes a vasodilatation of central origin in perfused limbs.

4. As regards the majority of its effects veritol resembles adrenaline, but its effects are of much longer duration.

5. Doses of veritol as large as 20 mg./kg. did not produce any immediate toxic effects on anæsthetised cats.

I wish to express my thanks to Professor A. J. Clark for his advice and help throughout this investigation. I also wish to thank Mr. N. E. Condon for his advice in designing the stromuhr.
OBSERVATIONS RELATING TO CARDIAC HYPERTROPHY IN THE RABBIT: THE REFRACTORY PERIOD OF HYPERTROPHIED VENTRICULAR MUSCLE
Authors: Drury Alan N.
Published: December 2015

The “effective refractory period” of ventricular muscle which is (1) hypertrophied and dilated, (2) hypertrophied, (3) has returned to normal after being hypertrophied and dilated, is within normal limits.

I wish to express my thanks to Mr. J. A. F. Fozzard, of the Department of Anatomy, for carrying out the X‐ray work.
THE LIBERATION OF A SLOW‐REACTING SMOOTH MUSCLE‐STIMULATING SUBSTANCE IN ANAPHYLAXIS
Authors: Kellaway C. H. , Trethewie E. R.
Published: December 2015

1. The response of the isolated jejunum of the sensitised guinea‐pig to the anaphylactic antigen resembles that produced by venoms and by S.R.S. in its latency, in the time required for relaxation, and in the after‐changes in excitability of the muscle.

2. The contractions of the jejunum of the guinea‐pig to antigen, to histamine, and to the slow‐reacting muscle‐stimulant substance (S.R.S.) formed by venoms were compared under various conditions of decreased reactivity of the muscle. These were brought about by administration of S.R.S., lysocithin, histaminase (Torantil), CO2, the toxin of Cl. welchii type A, and by photodynamic action. In most cases the responses to histamine, S.R.S., and antigen were depressed to the same extent. After repeated treatment with S.R.S. the response to S.R.S. was greatly reduced or abolished, that to histamine was unimpaired, and the response to the antigen was only slightly affected. During recovery from lysocithin poisoning the response to the antigen was only slightly reduced, while those to S.R.S. and histamine were greatly reduced. After treatment with the toxin of Cl. welchii type A the response to S.R.S. was greatly reduced, whereas those to histamine and to the antigen were unimpaired. A similar dissociation was observed with the guinea‐pig's uterus after lysocithin.

3. The inability of the jejunum of the guinea‐pig to respond to histamine when CO2 has been bubbled through the solution containing it does not result from the formation of a loose but inactive compound of histamine with CO2, but from an effect of CO2 on the muscle, causing a decrease in its reactivity to various stimuli.

4. The intra‐arterial injection of antigen into the isolated perfused lung of the guinea‐pig causes the liberation of a slow‐reacting musclestimulant substance into the outflowing perfusate.

5. Fresh saline extracts of sensitised lung show an increase in their S.R.S. content after incubation with antigen, but extracts of tissue desiccated after treatment with antigen and subsequently re‐extracted show no such increase.

6. Fresh and desiccated extracts of sensitised jejunum incubated with antigen behave like lung extracts, but fresh saline extracts of sensitised uterus and liver similarly treated show no increase in activity.

7. Desiccated as well as fresh extracts of intestine treated with cobra venom show a striking increase in their content of S.R.S.

8. It is concluded that the anaphylactic contraction of smooth muscles is in part due to the liberation of histamine and probably in part also to S.R.S., which is liberated and not formed in the antigenantibody reaction.
THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BLOOD‐PRESSURE MEASUREMENTS OBTAINED SIMULTANEOUSLY ON THE TWO ARMS
Authors: Shock Nathan W. , Ogden Eric
Published: December 2015

Seventy per cent. of a group of normal young adult males showed a significant difference between blood‐pressure measurements made simultaneously on the two arms. The distribution of the magnitude of these differences is presented.

The same proportion of significant differences was found in 40 of the subjects when retested. The correlation between the magnitude of the differences for each individual in the two tests was low, indicating that the cause of the difference in blood‐pressure can rarely be a fixed structural characteristic of the individual.

Since these differences are not easily reproducible by variation of standard physiological conditions, it is suggested that they may be of psychogenic origin.
THE PHARMACODYNAMICS OF THE DOMESTIC FOWL WITH RESPECT TO ERGONOVINE AND ERGOTAMINE
Authors: Vanderbrook M. J. , Vos Jun Bert J.
Published: December 2015

1. The practicability of the chicken as a laboratory animal is reaffirmed.

2. The alkaloids ergonovine and ergotamine are about equally effective in their action upon the circulatory system of the chicken as judged by the magnitude of the blood‐pressure response, but the effects of ergonovine are more transitory.

3. Much smaller doses of ergonovine are required to produce pressor responses in chickens than in cats or in other laboratory animals.

4. In doses of about 10–20 mg. ergonovine and ergotamine are effective in inhibiting but not reversing the blood‐pressure response to epinephrine in the chicken.

5. After moderate doses of ergonovine and ergotamine electrocardiograms show only a slowing of the heart. With excessive doses minor changes in the T‐wave are observed.

6. In experiments on the perfused hearts of the fowl, cat, and rabbit small amounts of ergonovine and ergotamine give a striking reduction in the coronary flow. Ergotamine is some ten times more potent than ergonovine in this respect and also more persistent.

7. The response of the oviduct to these alkaloids is irregular except in the case of the uterine portion, which is always stimulated by ergonovine. Epinephrine inhibits all segments.

8. Studies on the isolated chicken intestine show a reduction in tone from ergonovine and ergotamine, the former being more effective. The response to both substances decreases from duodenum to colon.

It is a pleasure to acknowledge the helpful guidance of Professor E. M. K. Geiling throughout this investigation. A portion of the expenses of this work has been met by a grant from the Biological Research Fund of the University of Chicago.
THE ELASTIC CONSTANTS AND ULTRASTRUCTURE ORGANIZATION OF REGENERATED BASEMENT MEMBRANE (LENS CAPSULE)
Authors: Fisher R. F. , Hayes B. P.
Published: December 2015

The regenerated basement membrane of the crystalline lens of the rat has been found to have the following elastic constants: a Young's modulus of elasticity of 0·6±0·48 x 106 N m‐2 at low stress and 7·8±2·0 x 106 N m‐2 at rupture, an ultimate stress of 19·7±7·0 x 105 N m‐2, and a maximum percentage elongation of 33·7±6·1%. Electron microscopic observations of ultrasonicated fragments of the entire membrane show long filaments in parallel arrays and sheets. The filaments show a periodicity of 3·4 nm and a spacing of 3·2 nm. Electron microscopic observations of regenerated membrane treated with collagenase show a poorly staining matrix with separate short thin and thick non‐periodic filaments, their diameters being 1·4 nm and 2·5 nm respectively. In addition, strands project from the ends of filaments with a diameter between 0·5 and 1·0 nm. The reduced ultimate strength and Young's modulus of elasticity at rupture in regenerated membrane as compared with normal membrane is considered to be due to the preponderance of thinner filaments in the former. Normal membrane contains not more than 33% of thin filaments whereas regenerated membrane contains at least 78% of such filaments. A comparison of the diameters of thin and thick filaments indicates that thick filaments are probably composed of five strands while thin ones contain three strands.
THE DIURETIC AND NATRIURETIC RESPONSES TO STIMULATION OF LEFT ATRIAL RECEPTORS IN DOGS WITH DIFFERENT BLOOD VOLUMES
Authors: Gupta B. N. , Linden R. J. , Mary D. A. S. G. , Weatherill D.
Published: December 2015

The diuretic and natriuretic responses to stimulation of atrial receptors were compared in two groups of anaesthetized dogs, one group with a high blood volume and another group with a low blood volume. A diuretic response to stimulation of the atrial receptors was obtained in the two groups of animals. Both the diuretic and the natriuretic responses to stimulation of the atrial receptors were greater in the dogs with high blood volume than in the dogs with low blood volume. In a second series of experiments, a diuretic response to stimulation of the atrial receptors was demonstrated in both groups of animals following surgical denervation of the kidney. In the denervated kidney, a large increase in heart rate, associated with stimulation of the atrial receptors, significantly contributed to the diuretic response in the dogs with high blood volume but not to the response in dogs with low blood volume. In the denervated kidney, a natriuretic response was only obtained in the dogs with high blood volume in which a large increase in heart rate was associated with stimulation of the atrial receptors. The present results show that the diuretic and natriuretic responses to stimulation of atrial receptors are greater in dogs with high blood volume than in dogs with low blood volume, and that increases in heart rate, associated with stimulation of atrial receptors, significantly contribute to the diuretic and natriuretic responses in acutely denervated kidneys in the dogs with high blood volume.
EFFECTS OF FREQUENT MILKING ON MILK SECRETION DURING LACTATION IN THE GOAT: RELATION TO FACTORS WHICH LIMIT THE RATE OF SECRETION
Authors: Blatchford D. R. , Peaker M.
Published: December 2015

Goats were milked hourly with the aid of oxytocin at different stages of lactation. Udder volume and milk yield were also measured. The marked variation between goats in the time after parturition at which peak milk yield is attained and in the rate of decline after peak is illustrated. Hourly milking had a stimulatory effect on the rate of milk secretion in early lactation (before peak) and in declining lactation (after peak), in both cases at previous milk yields of 1·1–1·48 g/ml udder volume. d. There was no stimulatory effect of hourly milking on milk yield at or near peak lactation (yield before the experiment 〉 1·48 g/ml volume.d) or in late lactation (〈 1·1 g/ml.d).

The responses of milk yield to hourly milking are discussed in relation to the factors which limit the rate of secretion. In particular, it is concluded that a stimulatory response indicates that before the experiment the rate of secretion could not have been limited directly by the arterial supply of one or more substrates for milk synthesis.

It is stressed that the results were obtained under one dietary regime only.
Stimulus‐secretion coupling in rat pancreas: role of sodium, calcium and cyclic nucleotides studied by X‐537A and BrX‐537A.
Authors: Singh M
Published: December 2015

1. The aim of the present work was to study the role of Na+, Ca2+ and cyclic nucleotides in stimulus‐secretion coupling in rat pancreatic acinar cells utilizing Ca2+ specific ionophore A23187 as well as ionophores X‐537A and BrX‐537A which transport both monovalent and divalent cations across biological membranes. 2. X‐537A, BrX‐537A and A23187 increased amylase secretion by a direct energy dependent action without damaging the cells. Antimycin‐A and dinitrophenol increased the spontaneous release of amylase. 3. In the absence of extracellular Ca2+, the secretory response to X‐537A and BrX‐537A was reduced by 57 and 50% respectively whereas A23187 was without effect. In the absence of extracellular Na+, both basal and ionophore stimulated secretion of amylase were increased. Replacement of Na+ by Li+ or Tris+ in Ca2+‐free medium abolished the increase in amylase secretion. 4. X‐537A increased bidirectional flux of 45Ca2+. Efflux of 45Ca2+ persisted in Ca2+‐free media. In Tris‐Ringer and Li‐Ringer, basal 45Ca2+ influx and amylase secretion were increased. Moreover X‐537A enhanced both 45Ca2+ efflux and amylase secretion. This effect was abolished in media containing no Na+ and Ca2+ suggesting that Na+ concentration gradient across the membrane is critical for digestive enzyme secretion. 5. Theophylline increased basal concentration of cyclic‐GMP at 1, 2, 5, 15 and 30 min. X‐537A stimulated cyclic‐GMP synthesis in presence of theophylline with a peak effect observed at 15 min with X‐537A. Incubation of pancreatic fragments in Ca2+‐free media containing EGTA (5 x 10(‐5) M) decreased basal and X‐537A stimulated synthesis of cyclic‐GMP. 6. From these data it is concluded that Na+ plays a direct role in Ca2+ mobilization and exocytosis. Like other tissues, cyclic‐GMP synthesis is dependent on extracellular Ca2+ and does not seem to play a role in stimulus‐secretion coupling.
Effects of substance P on carotid chemoreceptor activity in the cat.
Authors: McQueen D S
Published: December 2015

1. The influence of substance P (SP) on spontaneous chemosensory discharge and on responses of the carotid chemoreceptors to various drugs has been investigated in pentobarbitone anaesthetized casts in which chemoreceptor activity was recorded from the peripheral end of a sectioned sinus nerve. 2. After an initial slight inhibition during the first 5‐‐15 sec following the injection, SP (0.1‐‐100 microgram I.A.) caused a dose‐related increase in discharge which lasted for 45‐‐300 sec in artificially ventilated cats, discharge being increased by about 50% on average. The increase was of shorter duration when the animals were allowed to breathe spontaneously. 3. The delayed increase in discharge was not secondary to the hypotension caused by SP, nor was it entirely due to changes in bronchomotor tone resulting from direct or indirect actions of SP, although such changes contributed to the response. It was not possible to determine whether the excitation was due to a direct effect of SP on the chemoreceptors. 4. Chemosensory excitation evoked by NaCN (5 microgram I.A.) was potentiated during I.A. infusions of SP and also 10‐‐20 min after SP (10 microgram I.A.) had been injected. In contrast, responses to ACh (50 microgram I.A.) were inhibited. These effects may be due to a nicotinic‐blocking action of SP on the carotid chemoreceptors. It was also found that the inhibitory action of dopamine (5 microgram I.A.) was reduced during SP infusion whereas that of 5‐HT (10 microgram I.A.) was potentiated. 5. A sample of crude SP had effects on spontaneous chemoreceptor discharge and responses to NaCN and ACh which were qualitatively similar to those obtained using synthetic SP. 6. The physiological significance of the results is discussed and it is concluded that the interpretation depends upon whether or not SP is present in the cat's carotid body.