bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrospective study of reticulocyte indices as indicators of iron-restricted erythropoiesis in dogs with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia
Authors: Schaefer Deanna M. W. , Stokol Tracy
Published: April 2016

Iron-restricted erythropoiesis can occur as a result of an absolute deficiency of iron stores, inflammation-mediated iron sequestration, or functional iron deficiency (in which release of stored iron is slower than the iron uptake by erythroid precursors during intense erythropoiesis). Reticulocyte indices are used to identify iron-restricted erythropoiesis, with the reticulocyte hemoglobin content (CHr) being the most commonly used index in human patients. Dogs with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) may have iron-restricted erythropoiesis caused by inflammation-mediated iron sequestration and/or functional iron deficiency, which could contribute to anemia severity and blunt the regenerative response in some dogs. To investigate this possibility, reticulocyte indices were examined retrospectively in 14 dogs (2–15 years of age; 9 spayed females, 1 intact female, 4 neutered males) with IMHA, and no clinical evidence of blood loss was found to suggest absolute iron deficiency. Five dogs (34%) had CHr below the preestablished lower reference limit (24.5 pg), and hematocrit was significantly lower in these dogs ( p = 0.042, nonpaired t-test). Our results suggest that some dogs with IMHA may have iron-restricted erythropoiesis as a result of functional iron deficiency, inflammation-mediated iron sequestration, or (less likely) absolute iron deficiency. Further study is warranted to evaluate if dogs with IMHA may benefit from parenteral iron therapy.
Pathology of ear hematomas in swine
Authors: Drolet Richard , Hélie Pierre , D’Allaire Sylvie
Published: April 2016

The objectives of our study were to describe the pathology of ear hematomas in swine and to add to the comprehension of the pathogenesis of this condition. The pathogenesis of aural hematomas has been studied mainly in dogs; however, disagreements exist about the precise anatomic location of the hemorrhage. Sixteen pigs with ear hematoma at various stages of development were included in this study. The pigs were submitted for routine autopsy for various and unrelated reasons over a period of several years. Based on gross examination, the 16 cases of aural hematomas were subjectively classified as acute ( n = 6), subacute ( n = 3), and chronic ( n = 7). The age of the animals at the time of autopsy ranged from 2 weeks to adulthood, with all acute cases being <7 weeks of age. Morphologic examination of all acute cases revealed that the hematoma developed predominantly in a subperichondral location on both sides of the cartilaginous plate simultaneously. Within these same cases, there were also some areas in which blood-filled clefts had formed within the cartilage itself. Besides fibroplasia, neoformation of cartilage was found to represent a significant part of the repair process. All chronic cases were characterized on cross-section of the ear by the presence of at least 2 distinct, wavy, focally folded, and roughly parallel plates of cartilage separated from each other by fibrous tissue.
Decision-Making of Patients With Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators at End of Life: Family Members’ Experiences
Authors: Lee Mei Ching , Sulmasy Daniel P. , Gallo Joseph , Kub Joan , Hughes Mark T. , Russell Stuart , Kellogg Anela , Owens Sharon G. , Terry Peter , Nolan Marie T.
Published: April 2016

Introduction:

Many patients with advanced heart failure (HF) experience the life-extending benefits of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICD), but at the end stage of HF, patients may experience shocks with increasing frequency and change the plan for end-of-life (EOL) care including the deactivation of the ICD. This report describes family members’ experiences of patients with ICD making decisions at EOL. Understanding the decision-making of patients with ICD at EOL can promote informed decision-making and improve the quality of EOL care.

Methods:

This pilot study used a mixed methods approach to test the effects of a nurse-guided discussion in decision-making about ICD deactivation (turning off the defibrillation function) at the EOL. Interviews were conducted, audiotaped, and transcribed in 2012 to 2013 with 6 family members of patients with advanced HF and ICDs. Three researchers coded the data and identified themes in 2014.

Results:

Three main themes described family members’ experiences related to patients having HF with ICDs making health-care decision at EOL: decision-making preferences, patients’ perception on ICD deactivation, and communication methods.

Discussion:

Health-care providers need to have knowledge of patients’ decision-making preferences. Preferences for decision-making include the allowing of appropriate people to involve and encourages direct conversation with family members even when advance directives is completed. Information of ICD function and the option of deactivation need to be clearly delivered to patients and family members. Education and guidelines will facilitate the communication of the preferences of EOL care.
Excitation and distortion of elastic vibration of cylindrical ultrasonic stator
Authors: Wang Yaoyao , Wang Shiyu , Xiu Jie
Published: April 2016

This work examines the elastic vibration of the ultrasonic stator subjected to piezoelectric bending excitation by focusing on two fundamental issues: general driving rule and vibration distortion. An elastic model of a cylindrical ultrasonic stator is developed by using Hamilton’s principle and solved by analytical approach. The results imply that a desired vibration can be aroused provided that an algebraic relation is satisfied by a suitable parameter combination. Traveling/standing wave is excited by conventional time-spatial voltage ones or even other ones. The relationships between the duty ratio of input voltage and wave distortion are identified as closed-form expression of basic parameters. The excitation’s average creates a stationary deflection but it can be neglected thanks to the sufficiently small amplitude it causes relative to that at the resonance frequency. The rotation reversion is realized by changing the duty ratio or excitation frequency but remarkable distortion and amplitude decrease occur, leading to the asymmetry between the forward and inversion. Main results are validated by the superposition approach and comparisons against the existing ones. Discussions on phasing effect and vibration distortion relative to other symmetric systems are also made. Main contributions are the general driving rule with non-π/2 time-spatial phases and explanations on vibration distortion. These are achieved via the general time-spatial phasing in cyclically symmetric power-transmission systems.
A MEMS-based shifted membrane electrodynamic microsensor for microphone applications
Authors: Hadj Said M , Tounsi F , Surya SG , Mezghani B , Masmoudi M , Rao VR
Published: April 2016

In this paper we present a multidisciplinary modeling of a MEMS-based electrodynamic microsensor, when an additional vertical offset is defined, aiming acoustic applications field. The principle is based on the use of two planar inductors, fixed outer and suspended inner. When a DC current is made to flow through the outer inductor, a magnetic field is produced within the suspended inner one, located on a membrane top. In our modeling, the magnetic field curve, as a function of the vertical fluctuation magnitude, shows that the radial component was maximum and stationary for a specific vertical location. We demonstrate in this paper that the dynamic response of the electrodynamic microsensor was very appropriate for acting as a microphone when the membrane is shifted to a certain vertical position, which represents an improvement of the microsensor's basic design. Thus, a proposed technological method to ensure this offset of the inner inductor, by using wafer bonding method, is discussed. On this basis, the mechanical and electrical modeling for the new microphone design was performed using both analytic and Finite Element Method. Firstly, the resonance frequency was set around 1.6 kHz, in the middle of the acoustic band (20 Hz – 20 kHz), then the optimal location of the inner average spiral was evaluated to be around 200µm away from the diaphragm edge. The overall dynamic sensitivity was evaluated by coupling the lumped elements from different domains interfering during the microphone function. Dynamic sensitivity was found to be 6.3 μV/Pa when using 100 µm for both gap and vertical offset. In conclusion, a bandwidth of 37.6 Hz to 26.5 kHz has been found which is wider compared to some conventional microphones.
Experimental investigations of a rolling-based seismic isolation system
Authors: Ismail Mohammed , Rodellar Jośe
Published: April 2016

This paper presents the results of an extensive series of experimental tests to identify the mechanical characteristics of a recently-proposed seismic isolation device known as the Roll- In-Cage (RNC) isolator. Several 1/10 reduced-scale experimental prototypes are examined considering different configurations, characteristics and construction materials. Cyclic horizontal displacement tests, varying the test parameters of shear displacement amplitude, axial load, and loading frequency are performed. The RNC isolator’s force-displacement relationship, shear stiffness and damping properties are investigated in terms of different test parameters. In addition, vertical cyclic displacement is applied to examine the RNC isolator’s capability to withstand vertical axial tension. Furthermore, tests at the ultimate-level consisting of an increasing monotonic shear loading beyond the bearing’s design displacement are also carried out to investigate its behavior after activating its self-stopping or buffer mechanism. Some experimentally obtained results are verified using numerical simulation models. A comparative analysis of the results is then performed to allow for highlighting the main features of the RNC isolator.
Fragments and Fictions
Authors: Henson Donna F.
Published: April 2016

Pursuing the notion of verbal rumination as a theoretical method, this autoethnography plays in the space between fact and fiction, past and possibility. A disorganized narrative, by any definition of the term, this repetitive, ruminative, and relational storying plays in the shadows of subjectivities, in fragments of memory and possibility, storying a life lived, half-lived, unlived. Restorying a life that might be, could be, would be.
Noncommunicable Diseases in Ghana
Authors: Tenkorang Eric Y. , Kuuire Vincent Z.
Published: April 2016

The theory of social gradient in health posits that individuals with lower socioeconomic status (SES) have poorer health outcomes, compared with those in higher socioeconomic brackets. Applied to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), this theory has largely been corroborated by studies from the West. However, evidence from sub-Saharan Africa are mixed, with those from Ghana conspicuously missing in the literature. Using data from the Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health, and applying random-effects C log-log models, this study examined the relationship between SES and the risks of living with NCDs in Ghana. Results confirmed a negative social gradient, as Ghanaians with higher SES were more likely to live with NCDs compared with those with low SES. The addition of lifestyle factors attenuated the risks of living with NCDs among Ghanaian men and women with higher SES. This study underscores the need for policies targeted at specific socioeconomic and demographic groups, such as the emerging middle and upper class Ghanaians. It is similarly important for interventions to move beyond biomedical solutions that put more emphasis on epidemiological risk factors to strategies that embrace psychosocial factors as important correlates of cardiovascular health.
Diabetes Treatment as “Homework”
Authors: Nielsen Jannie , Bahendeka Silver K. , Bygbjerg Ib C. , Meyrowitsch Dan W. , Whyte Susan R.
Published: April 2016

Background. Health professionals assign diabetes patients “homework” in that they give them instructions on how to manage diabetes, recognizing that most diabetes care takes place in the home setting. We studied how homework is practiced and whether knowledge and behavioral practices related to diabetes self-management diffuse from patients to their housemates. Method. This mixed-methods study combined quantitative data from a household survey including 90 rural Ugandan households (50% had a member with type 2 diabetes [T2D]) with qualitative data from health facilities and interviews with 10 patients with T2D. Focus for data collection was knowledge and practices related to diabetes homework. A generalized mixed model was used to analyze quantitative data, while content analysis was used for qualitative data analysis. Results. Patients with T2D generally understood the diabetes homework assignments given by health professionals and carried out their homework with support from housemates. Although adherence to recommended diet was variable, housemates were likely to eat a healthier diet than if no patient with T2D lived in the household. Knowledge related to diabetes homework diffused from the patients to housemates and beyond to neighbors and family living elsewhere. Knowledge about primary prevention of T2D was almost absent among health staff, patients, and relatives. Conclusions. Homework practices related to T2D improve diabetes-related knowledge and may facilitate healthy eating in nondiabetic housemates. These findings suggest that having a chronic disease in the household provides an opportunity to improve health in the entire household and address the lack of knowledge about prevention of T2D.
Tackling Noncommunicable Diseases in Africa
Authors: Mensah George A.
Published: April 2016

Noncommunicable disease (NCD), principally cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic lung disease, and diabetes, constitutes the major cause of death worldwide. Evidence of a continuing increase in the global burden of these diseases has generated recent urgent calls for global action to tackle and reduce related death and disability. Because the majority of NCD deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, increased attention has been focused on this group of countries. However, in sub-Saharan Africa, where all countries are members of the low- and middle-income grouping, NCDs are not the leading causes of death or potential life years lost. Thus, strategies to tackle NCDs in sub-Saharan Africa are best conceived and executed in alignment with existing strategies for the prevention, treatment, and control of the actual leading causes of death in this region. This commentary addresses caveats to be considered as strategies are developed to tackle NCDs in sub-Saharan Africa as part of the global effort to prevent, treat, and control NCDs.
Claim Your Space
Authors: Airhihenbuwa Collins O. , Ogedegbe Gbenga , Iwelunmor Juliet , Jean-Louis Girardin , Williams Natasha , Zizi Freddy , Okuyemi Kolawole
Published: April 2016

As the burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) rises in settings with an equally high burden of infectious diseases in the Global South, a new sense of urgency has developed around research capacity building to promote more effective and sustainable public health and health care systems. In 2010, NCDs accounted for more than 2.06 million deaths in sub-Saharan Africa. Available evidence suggests that the number of people in sub-Saharan Africa with hypertension, a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, will increase by 68% from 75 million in 2008 to 126 million in 2025. Furthermore, about 27.5 million people currently live with diabetes in Africa, and it is estimated that 49.7 million people living with diabetes will reside in Africa by 2030. It is therefore necessary to centralize leadership as a key aspect of research capacity building and strengthening in the Global South in ways that enables researchers to claim their spaces in their own locations. We believe that building capacity for transformative leadership in research will lead to the development of effective and appropriate responses to the multiple burdens of NCDs that coexist with infectious diseases in Africa and the rest of the Global South.
Stroke Investigative Research and Education Network
Authors: Jenkins Carolyn , Arulogun Oyedunni Sola , Singh Arti , Mande Aliyu T. , Ajayi Eric , Calys-Tagoe Benedict , Ovbiagele Bruce , Lackland Daniel T. , Sarfo Fred Stephen , Akinyemi Rufus , Akpalu Albert , Obiako Reginald , Melikam Enzinne Sylvia , Laryea Ruth , Shidali Vincent , Sagoe Kwamena , Ibinaiye Philip , Fakunle Adekunie Gregory , Owolabi Lukman F. , Owolabi Mayowa O. ,   the SIREN Team
Published: April 2016

Stroke is the leading cause of neurological hospital admissions in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and the second leading cause of death globally. The Stroke Investigative Research and Education Network seeks to comprehensively characterize the genomic, sociocultural, economic, and behavioral risk factors for stroke and to build effective teams for research to address and decrease the burden of stroke and other noncommunicable diseases in SSA. One of the first steps to address this goal is to effectively engage the communities that suffer the high burden of disease. The purpose of this article is to describe plans to elucidate information about knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and practices about stroke and genomics from patients, caregivers, and local leaders, to recruit participation in research activities and dissemination of ongoing results, as well as to facilitate research uptake and impact within the broader communities of scientists, health professionals, policy makers, and others. We describe the (a) study sites and their communities; (b) plans for community advisory boards, focus groups, and surveys; (c) methods for data management in REDCap database; (d) analyses of qualitative data; (e) evaluation of community and public engagement across multiple sites and research teams in SSA and the United States; (f) use of RE-AIM for presentation of evaluation data; and (g) community indicators of success. This is the first of its kind public outreach engagement initiative to evaluate stroke and genomics in SSA, and has implications as a model for assessment in other high–stroke risk populations.
Maladaptive coping in adults who have experienced early parental loss and grief counseling
Authors: Høeg Beverley Lim , Appel Charlotte W , von Heymann-Horan Annika B , Frederiksen Kirsten , Johansen Christoffer , Bøge Per , Dencker Annemarie , Dyregrov Atle , Mathiesen Birgit B , Bidstrup Pernille E
Published: April 2016

This study compares maladaptive coping, measured as substance use, behavioral disengagement, self-blame, and emotional eating, among adults (>18 years) who have experienced early parental loss ( N = 1465 women, N = 331 men) with non-bereaved controls ( N = 515 women, N = 115 men). We also compared bereaved adults who received grief counseling ( N = 822 women, N = 190 men) with bereaved controls who had not ( N = 233 women, N = 66 men). Bereaved adults reported significantly more substance use, behavioral disengagement, and emotional eating than non-bereaved adults. Counseling participants reported significantly more substance use and self-blame than non-participants. Our results suggest that early loss may negatively impact the development of adulthood coping.
An exploration of appearance and health messages present in pregnancy magazines
Authors: Boepple Leah , Thompson J Kevin
Published: April 2016

This study explored appearance-related images and messages present in pregnancy magazines (e.g. Fit Pregnancy, Pregnancy & Newborn, and Pregnancy Magazine). A substantial portion of advertisements and articles promoted appearance-related products or products for postpartum weight loss. Health messages and messages related to diet and exercise were also present. Images also sexualized pregnant women’s bodies. Appearance-related messages aimed toward pregnant women may be problematic and may contribute to body dissatisfaction in these women.
Our past
Authors: Boateng Francis D , Darko Isaac Nortey
Published: April 2016

This article explores the effects of colonialism on policing in Ghana, and suggests ways of improving police legitimacy. Ghana experienced a century-long colonization by the British, and this experience had a tremendous impact on contemporary governmental institutions in the country. The Ghana police, one of the major institutions that has suffered from colonialism, continue to apply the policies, practices, and behaviors of the colonial policing system. An approach that has woefully and negatively affected police legitimation in the country. The article furthers the discussion of police legitimacy in post-colonial Ghana and puts forth two related arguments: first, the legitimacy problems facing the police today were due to the imperialist rule by the British; and second, the best way to address these problems is for the police to untangle itself from the past. Specific recommendations are offered to enable the police improve upon its legitimacy.
Broadcasting one world: How watching online videos can elicit elevation and reduce stereotypes
Authors: Krämer Nicole , Eimler Sabrina C , Neubaum German , Winter Stephan , Rösner Leonie , Oliver Mary Beth
Published: April 2016

Research on non-hedonic entertainment suggests the experience of elevation as an important construct leading to beneficial outcomes such as prosocial motivation. This study builds on first findings in this realm by distinguishing between different meaningful media contents. In a 3 × 4 between-subjects online experiment, we varied type of video (beauty of the earth, unity of humankind, portrayals of human kindness, and funny control videos) and context of proliferation (presentation on an unknown video platform or on YouTube with low vs high number of views). Meaningful videos indeed led to greater elevation, more universal orientation, and prosocial motivation—with videos showing human kindness standing out against other forms of meaningful videos. Human kindness videos additionally fostered more positive attitudes toward stereotyped groups—mediated by the feeling of elevation and the subsequent feeling of universal orientation.
The Impact of Higher Levels of Automation on Performance and Situation Awareness
Authors: Jipp Meike , Ackerman Phillip L.
Published: April 2016

Systems that supported operators with higher levels of information-analysis and decision-selection automation had varying effects on human performance and situation awareness. We investigated whether information-processing and working-memory abilities moderate the effects of automation on human performance and situation awareness. To investigate such effects, we measured the information-processing ability and working-memory capacity of 60 participants. We also assessed their performance and situation awareness when they repeatedly controlled simulated air traffic with the support of different levels of information-analysis and decision-selection automation. Results indicated that performance increased, but situation awareness declined, when the levels of automation increased. The participants with better information-processing ability and working-memory capacity scored better in performance and situation awareness. The participants with higher information-processing ability and working-memory capacity profited from the higher levels of automation. In contrast, the participants with lower information-processing ability and working-memory capacity suffered under higher levels of automation. Authors of future research should thus consider individual differences when investigating the effects of automation and focus on identifying mechanisms that ensure that automation supports all operators.
Influence of the swing ankle angle on walking stability for a passive dynamic walking robot with flat feet
Authors: Zang Xizhe , Liu Xinyu , Liu Yixiang , Iqbal Sajid , Zhao Jie
Published: April 2016

To achieve high walking stability for a passive dynamic walking robot is not easy. In this article, we aim to investigate whether the walking performance for a passive dynamic walking robot can be improved by just simply changing the swing ankle angle before impact. To validate this idea, a passive bipedal walking model with two straight legs, two flat feet, a hip joint, and two ankle joints was built in this study. The walking dynamics that contains double stance phase was derived. By numerical simulation of the walking in MATLAB, we found that the walking performance can be adjusted effectively by only simply changing the swing ankle angle before impact. A bigger swing ankle angle in a reasonable range will lead to a higher walking stability and a lower initial walking speed of the next step. A bigger swing ankle angle before impact leads to a bigger amount of energy lost during impact for the quasi-passive dynamic walking robot which will influence the walking stability of the next step.
Bilateral transfer phenomenon: A functional magnetic resonance imaging pilot study of healthy subjects
Authors: Uggetti Carla , Ausenda Carlo D , Squarza Silvia , Cadioli Marcello , Grimoldi Ludovico , Cerri Cesare , Cariati Maurizio
Published: April 2016

Background

The bilateral transfer of a motor skill is a physiological phenomenon: the development of a motor skill with one hand can trigger the development of the same ability of the other hand.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to verify whether bilateral transfer is associated with a specific brain activation pattern using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

Methods

The motor task was implemented as the execution of the Nine Hole Peg Test. Fifteen healthy subjects (10 right-handers and five left-handers) underwent two identical fMRI runs performing the motor task with the non-dominant hand. Between the first and the second run, each subject was intensively trained for five minutes to perform the same motor task with the dominant hand.

Results

Comparing the two functional scans across the pool of subjects, a change of the motor activation pattern was observed. In particular, we observed, in the second run, a change in the activation pattern both in the cerebellum and in the cerebral cortex. We found activations in cortical areas involved in somatosensory integration, areas involved in procedural memory.

Conclusions

Our study shows, in a small group of healthy subjects, the modification of the fMRI activation pathway of a motor task performed by the non-dominant hand after intensive exercise performing the same task with the dominant hand.
An unusual variation of carotid-vertebrobasilar arteries: An anatomical case report
Authors: Shi Shi-kui
Published: April 2016

Background and purpose

Having no obvious clinical symptoms and signs, it is difficult to find head and neck vascular variations without the aid of vascular imaging techniques.

Summary of case

A 66-year-old female patient underwent head and neck computed tomographic angiography examination. Her computed tomographic angiography examination revealed that the internal carotid artery directly migrated to the ophthalmic artery. Brain blood supply is provided by the vertebrobasilar artery independently.

Conclusion

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is a very rare anatomical vascular variation of the head and neck found by computed tomographic angiography.
Emerging Stock Market Integration in the Post Financial Crises Era: An Empirical Analysis of the Short-term and Long-term Linkages
Authors: Verma Rajneesh Prakash , Rani Poonam
Published: April 2016

In the backdrop of the recent global financial crises in 2008, this article attempts to assess the linkage among Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Korea. For this purpose, we adopted a variety of ways. First, long-run and short-run linkages among emerging market indices were investigated by using Johansen’s co-integration method and Sim’s vector autoregression model. Second, to analyze the issue in detail, we examined the causal relationship and impact of shocks by using Toda and Yamamoto (1995) version of Ganger noncausality test and forecasted error variance decomposition along with the impulse response function. We have investigated short-run causal relationship among the emerging market indices and showed how much of the forecast error variance of NIFTY market returns can be explained by exogenous shocks to the other emerging markets. The results of noncausality test among emerging stock markets indicated that Brazilian market has a unidirectional causality with Indian stock market, and Indian stock market has a unidirectional causality with South Korean market. Finally, the results of variance decomposition and impulse response function suggest that return in Indian stock market (NIFTY) is largely affected by its own shocks, whereas shocks in return of other emerging stock markets do not dominate in case of return in Indian stock market (NIFTY).
Suitable traverse ratios for step precision winding
Authors: Koranne Milind Vasudeo , Mhedu Kuldeep
Published: April 2016

Step precision winding produces a yarn package that is free from ribbon formation and marginal variation in coil angle. In open step precision winding, traverse ratios used during package build are such that the resultant package is open suitable for end user applications like warping and dyeing. It is always a critical task for a manufacturer of step precision yarn winding system to find values of traverse ratios which are open and definitely ribbon free without any appearance of diamonds or honeycomb. Traverse ratios used in any commercial step precision yarn winding system are not accessible to the user. The authors have carried out basic work of finding suitable open wind traverse ratios for step precision winding and have come out with a novel approach of “SAFE ZONES” for finding suitable open traverse ratios. This paper discusses this novel approach that is very useful for manufacturers of step precision winding systems.
Human mast cells capture, store, and release bioactive, exogenous IL-17A
Authors: Noordenbos Troy , Blijdorp Iris , Chen Sijia , Stap Jan , Mul Erik , Cañete Juan D , Lubberts Erik , Yeremenko Nataliya , Baeten Dominique
Published: April 2016

IL-17A, a major proinflammatory cytokine, can be produced by a variety of leukocytes, but its exact cellular source in human inflammatory diseases remains incompletely understood. IL-17A protein is abundantly found in mast cells in human tissues, such as inflamed synovium, but surprisingly, mechanistic murine studies failed to demonstrate IL-17A production by mast cells. Here, we demonstrate that primary human tissue mast cells do not produce IL-17A themselves but actively capture exogenous IL-17A through receptor-mediated endocytosis. The exogenous IL-17A is stored in intracellular granules and can subsequently be released in a bioactive form. This novel mechanism confers to mast cells the capacity to steer IL-17A-mediated tissue inflammation by the rapid release of preformed cytokine.
Resolving mental illness stigma: Should we seek normalcy or solidarity?
Authors: Corrigan Patrick W.
Published: April 2016

Two approaches have emerged to deal with the stigma of mental illness: normalcy, where people with mental illness are framed as ‘just like everyone else’; and solidarity, where the public agrees to stand with those with mental illness regardless of their symptoms. Pros and cons of each approach are considered.
Biological v. psychosocial treatments: a myth about pharmacotherapy v. psychotherapy
Authors: Prosser Aaron , Helfer Bartosz , Leucht Stefan
Published: April 2016

Despite evidence for their comparable efficacy, psychotherapy faces a dramatic decline relative to pharmacotherapy in psychiatry. A deep ideological reason for this decline centres on the belief that psychotherapy is a psychosocial treatment whereas pharmacotherapy is a biological treatment. Modern cognitive neuroscience demonstrates that this distinction is a myth.
Sampling in epidemiological research: issues, hazards and pitfalls
Authors: Tyrer Stephen , Heyman Bob
Published: April 2016

Surveys of people's opinions are fraught with difficulties. It is easier to obtain information from those who respond to text messages or to emails than to attempt to obtain a representative sample. Samples of the population that are selected non-randomly in this way are termed convenience samples as they are easy to recruit. This introduces a sampling bias. Such non-probability samples have merit in many situations, but an epidemiological enquiry is of little value unless a random sample is obtained. If a sufficient number of those selected actually complete a survey, the results are likely to be representative of the population. This editorial describes probability and non-probability sampling methods and illustrates the difficulties and suggested solutions in performing accurate epidemiological research.
Faith, ethics and Section 63 of the Mental Health Act 1983
Authors: Curtice Martin , James Louisa
Published: April 2016

Section 63 of the Mental Health Act 1983 states that an approved clinician can provide medical treatment irrespective of whether or not a detained patient has capacity to refuse such treatment. Case law has established that a range of acts ancillary to the core mental disorder treatment are allowed under Section 63. This article analyses a unique court judgment involving a detained Jehovah's Witness patient who had made an advance decision refusing blood transfusions but who self-inflicted lacerations resulting in blood loss. Core issues within the case involved capacity to consent to treatment and the ethics of treating or not treating patients in such cases.
First-generation antipsychotics: not gone but forgotten
Authors: Dibben Claire R. M. , Khandaker Golam M. , Underwood Benjamin R. , O'Loughlin Christopher , Keep Catherine , Mann Louisa , Jones Peter B.
Published: April 2016

Aims and method

To identify training needs of the next generation of psychiatrists and barriers in prescribing first-generation antipsychotics (FGAs). We have surveyed psychiatry trainees in East Anglia with regard to their training experience, knowledge and attitudes to the use of oral FGAs as regular medication.

Results

Two-thirds of trainees were aware that first- and second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) have similar efficacy, and a similar proportion perceived the older drugs to have more or ‘stronger’ side-effects. Lack of training experience was noted as the second leading concern for prescribing FGAs. A quarter of trainees received no training exposure to the older drugs and two-thirds had never initiated these drugs themselves. Although nearly 90% of trainees felt confident about initiating an oral SGA as a regular medication, only about 40% felt confident with FGAs (P<0.001).

Clinical implications

The survey highlights worrying gaps in training. FGAs can be used effectively, minimising side-effects, by careful dose titration, avoiding antipsychotic polypharmacy, high-dose, and high-potency drugs, thus ensuring they are not lost to future generations of psychiatrists.
Cardiac-Specific Disruption of GH Receptor Alters Glucose Homeostasis While Maintaining Normal Cardiac Performance in Adult Male Mice
Authors: Jara Adam , Liu Xingbo , Sim Don , Benner Chance M. , Duran-Ortiz Silvana , Qian Yanrong , List Edward O. , Berryman Darlene E. , Kim Jason K. , Kopchick John J.
Published: April 2016

GH is considered necessary for the proper development and maintenance of several tissues, including the heart. Studies conducted in both GH receptor null and bovine GH transgenic mice have demonstrated specific cardiac structural and functional changes. In each of these mouse lines, however, GH-induced signaling is altered systemically, being decreased in GH receptor null mice and increased in bovine GH transgenic mice. Therefore, to clarify the direct effects GH has on cardiac tissue, we developed a tamoxifen-inducible, cardiac-specific GHR disrupted (iC-GHRKO) mouse line. Cardiac GH receptor was disrupted in 4-month-old iC-GHRKO mice to avoid developmental effects due to perinatal GHR gene disruption. Surprisingly, iC-GHRKO mice showed no difference vs controls in baseline or postdobutamine stress test echocardiography measurements, nor did iC-GHRKO mice show differences in longitudinal systolic blood pressure measurements. Interestingly, iC-GHRKO mice had decreased fat mass and improved insulin sensitivity at 6.5 months of age. By 12.5 months of age, however, iC-GHRKO mice no longer had significant decreases in fat mass and had developed glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. Furthermore, investigation via immunoblot analysis demonstrated that iC-GHRKO mice had appreciably decreased insulin stimulated Akt phosphorylation, specifically in heart and liver, but not in epididymal white adipose tissue. These changes were accompanied by a decrease in circulating IGF-1 levels in 12.5-month-old iC-GHRKO mice. These data indicate that whereas the disruption of cardiomyocyte GH-induced signaling in adult mice does not affect cardiac function, it does play a role in systemic glucose homeostasis, in part through modulation of circulating IGF-1.
Endometrial Stromal Decidualization Responds Reversibly to Hormone Stimulation and Withdrawal
Authors: Yu Jie , Berga Sarah L. , Johnston-MacAnanny Erika B. , Sidell Neil , Bagchi Indrani C. , Bagchi Milan K. , Taylor Robert N.
Published: April 2016

Human endometrial stromal decidualization is required for embryo receptivity, angiogenesis, and placentation. Previous studies from our laboratories established that connexin (Cx)-43 critically regulates endometrial stromal cell (ESC) differentiation, whereas gap junction blockade prevents it. The current study evaluated the plasticity of ESC morphology and Cx43 expression, as well as other biochemical markers of cell differentiation, in response to decidualizing hormones. Primary human ESC cultures were exposed to 10 nM estradiol, 100 nM progesterone, and 0.5 mM cAMP for up to 14 days, followed by hormone withdrawal for 14 days, mimicking a biphasic ovulatory cycle. Reversible differentiation was documented by characteristic changes in cell shape. Cx43 was reversibly up- and down-regulated after the estradiol, progesterone, and cAMP treatment and withdrawal, respectively, paralleled by fluctuations in prolactin, vascular endothelial growth factor, IL-11, and glycodelin secretion. Markers of mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET), and its counterpart epithelial-mesenchymal transition, followed reciprocal patterns corresponding to the morphological changes. Incubation in the presence of 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid, an inhibitor of gap junctions, partially reversed the expression of decidualization and MET markers. In the absence of hormones, Cx43 overexpression promoted increases in vascular endothelial growth factor and IL-11 secretion, up-regulated MET markers, and reduced N-cadherin, an epithelial-mesenchymal transition marker. The combined results support the hypothesis that Cx43-containing gap junctions and endocrine factors cooperate to regulate selected biomarkers of stromal decidualization and MET and suggest roles for both phenomena in endometrial preparation for embryonic receptivity.
Going Back to Their Roots: Comanche Trade and Diet Revisited
Authors: Mitchell Peter
Published: April 2016

Recent studies of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Comanches have argued that their dependence on bison posed a serious nutritional challenge in the form of a dangerously imbalanced high-protein diet. They contend that this specialization required Comanches to obtain carbohydrates in the form of maize from Spanish-ruled New Mexico and Texas or Native American horticulturalists. This in turn is claimed to have been crucial in structuring Comanche economic and political ties with their neighbors. This article argues instead that the documentary evidence used to support a trade in foodstuffs is weak and that Comanches employed alternative nutritional strategies, including consuming and storing a wide range of wild plants. Prestige and utilitarian goods such as metal tools and weapons, firearms, and items of personal adornment—not food—were the primary motivation for Comanche trade with Europeans.
Indigenous State Making on the Frontier: Arhuaco Politics in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia, 1900–1920
Authors: Muñoz Catalina
Published: April 2016

This article examines the ways in which, during the early decades of the twentieth century, Arhuaco leaders of the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia turned to the state to legitimize and move forward their claims. By so doing, they made the state a real presence in an area that has been thought of as a frontier characterized by the state’s absence. I explore Arhuaco interactions with the government and nonindigenous inhabitants of the area in local archives and argue that, far from resting at its margins, the Arhuaco brought the state into being. This case study contributes to the literature about popular and in particular indigenous politics by considering an instance of state formation in a frontier region where the institutional presence of the central administration was sparse. Without external provocation, some Arhuacos invited the state into their lives in selective and strategic ways.
Molecular control of two novel migratory paths for CGE-derived interneurons in the developing mouse brain
Authors: Touzot Audrey , Ruiz-Reig Nuria , Vitalis Tania , Studer Michèle
Published: April 2016

GABAergic interneurons are highly heterogenous and originate in the subpallium mainly from the medial (MGE) and caudal (CGE) ganglionic eminences according to a precise temporal sequence. While MGE-derived cells disperse dorsally and migrate towards all regions of the cortex, little is known on how CGE-derived cells reach their targets during development. Here, we unravel the existence of two novel CGE caudo-rostral migratory streams, one located laterally (LMS) and the other one more medially (MMS) that, together with the well-known caudal migratory stream (CMS), contribute to populate the neocortex, hippocampus and amygdala. These paths appear in a precise temporal sequence and express a distinct combination of transcription factors, such as Sp8, Prox1, COUP-TFI and COUP-TFII. By inactivating COUP-TFI in developing interneurons, the lateral and medial streams are perturbed and expression of Sp8 and COUP-TFII affected. As a consequence, adult mutant neocortices have laminar-specific alterations of distinct cortical interneuron subtypes. Overall, we propose that the existence of spatially and temporally regulated migratory paths in the subpallium contributes to the laminar distribution and specification of distinct interneuron subpopulations in the adult brain.
The inner workings of stress fibers − from contractile machinery to focal adhesions and back
Authors: Livne Ariel , Geiger Benjamin
Published: April 2016

Ventral stress fibers and focal adhesions are physically coupled structures that play key roles in cellular mechanics and force sensing. The tight functional interdependence between the two is manifested not only by their apparent proximity but also by the fact that ventral stress fibers and focal adhesions are simultaneously diminished upon actomyosin relaxation, and grow when subjected to external stretching. However, whereas the apparent co-regulation of the two structures is well-documented, the underlying mechanisms remains poorly understood. In this Commentary, we discuss some of the fundamental, yet still open questions regarding ventral stress fiber structure, its force-dependent assembly, as well as its capacity to generate force. We also challenge the common approach – i.e. ventral stress fibers are variants of the well-studied striated or smooth muscle machinery – by presenting and critically discussing alternative venues. By highlighting some of the less-explored aspects of the interplay between stress fibers and focal adhesions, we hope that this Commentary will encourage further investigation in this field.
A mutation abolishing the ZMPSTE24 cleavage site in prelamin A causes a progeroid disorder
Authors: Wang Yuexia , Lichter-Konecki Uta , Anyane-Yeboa Kwame , Shaw Jessica E. , Lu Jonathan T. , Östlund Cecilia , Shin Ji-Yeon , Clark Lorraine N. , Gundersen Gregg G. , Nagy Peter L. , Worman Howard J.
Published: April 2016

In 1994 in the Journal of Cell Science, Hennekes and Nigg reported that changing valine to arginine at the endoproteolytic cleavage site in chicken prelamin A abolishes its conversion to lamin A. The consequences of this mutation in an organism have remained unknown. We now report that the corresponding mutation in a human subject leads to accumulation of prelamin A and causes a progeroid disorder. Next generation sequencing of the subject and her parents' exomes identified a de novo mutation in the lamin A/C gene (LMNA) that resulted in a leucine to arginine amino acid substitution at residue 647 in prelamin A. The subject's fibroblasts accumulated prelamin A, a farnesylated protein, which led to an increased percentage of cultured cells with morphologically abnormal nuclei. Treatment with a protein farnesyltransferase inhibitor improved abnormal nuclear morphology. This case demonstrates that accumulation of prelamin A, independent of the loss of function of ZMPSTE24 metallopeptidase that catalyzes processing of prelamin A, can cause a progeroid disorder and that a cell biology assay could be used in precision medicine to identify a potential therapy.
IMPACT OF CAST SPEED ON THE OCCURRENCE OF THE NON-METALLIC INCLUSIONS IN STEEL
Authors: Rega Vladimír , Molnár Marek , Jusko Martin , Buľko Branislav , Kijac Jozef , Demeter Peter
Published: April 2016

This paper deals with the examination of the impact of steel cast speed on the occurrence of the non-metallic inclusions due to the investigation of the individual samples taken at different steel cast speeds. The aim of this paper was to identify and describe the relation between the non-metallic inclusions occurring in the metal and the cast speed variations at the continuous casting machine. The non-metallic inclusions within this investigation were identified by the method (AES) based on the atomic emission spectroscopy that evaluates the occurrence of the determined elements in the metal. This method applies the principle of the light emitting acquired by the high-voltage spark supply. The investigation of the impact of both the technological production parameters, and the casting on the cleanliness of the given absorption quality of steel leads to their optimization, as well as, to total minimization of occurrence of the non-metallic inclusions in the steel volume were studied.
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS ON TRIBOLOGICAL BEHAVIOUR OF AN AL ALLOY 7075 – AL2O3 COMPOSITES
Authors: Palanisamy P. Shanmughasundaram
Published: April 2016

Al alloy 7075 reinforced with Al2O3 particles of three different sizes (63,102, and 165 μm) were fabricated through the stir casting method. Dry sliding wear tests were conducted to evaluate the influence of load, sliding velocity and particle size on the wear loss and coefficient of friction of the composites using a pin-on-disc wear testing rig. Tests were conducted according to L9 Taguchi orthogonal array for three different loads (10, 30, and 50 N) at three different velocities (0.837, 1.674, and 2.512 m/s) for a constant time period of 30 minutes. The results showed that the wear increased with increasing load and sliding velocity whereas the coefficient of friction increased with increasing sliding velocity. On the contrary, the coefficient of friction decreased with increasing load. Composites reinforced with coarse Al2O3 particles exhibit superior wear resistance. It was found that the load was the most dominant factor influencing the wear loss and coefficient of friction followed by sliding velocity and particle size. A Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) was used to study the morphology of the worn surfaces of the pins.