bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Footstep Planning for Rapid Path Following in Humanoid Robots
Authors: Jiwen Zhang , Li Liu , Ken Chen
Published: May 2016

Rapid path following is an important component of a layered planning framework to improve motion speed. A method of generating a bipedal footstep sequence that follows a designated path and maintains stability in a planar environment is proposed in this paper. It adopts a walking style with a fixed step frequency and adjusts consecutive strides by eliminating irrational stride changes. An omnidirectional moving vehicle model and the deduced inequalities are introduced to theoretically describe the inter-pace constraints. A modified backtrack search is then implemented to solve the resulting constraint satisfaction problem. Both dynamics simulations and real robot experiments show that a humanoid robot is capable of tracking various paths with rapid paces. Comparison with several alternatives verifies the superiority of this novel method in terms of rapidity.
Obesity, Inflammation, and Cancer
Authors: Deng Tuo , Lyon Christopher J. , Bergin Stephen , Caligiuri Michael A. , Hsueh Willa A.
Published: May 2016

Obesity, a worldwide epidemic, confers increased risk for multiple serious conditions, including cancer, and is increasingly recognized as a growing cause of preventable cancer risk. Chronic inflammation, a well-known mediator of cancer, is a central characteristic of obesity, leading to many of its complications, and obesity-induced inflammation confers additional cancer risk beyond obesity itself. Multiple mechanisms facilitate this strong association between cancer and obesity. Adipose tissue is an important endocrine organ, secreting several hormones, including leptin and adiponectin, and chemokines that can regulate tumor behavior, inflammation, and the tumor microenvironment. Excessive adipose expansion during obesity causes adipose dysfunction and inflammation to increase systemic levels of proinflammatory factors. Cells from adipose tissue, such as cancer-associated adipocytes and adipose-derived stem cells, enter the cancer microenvironment to enhance protumoral effects. Dysregulated metabolism that stems from obesity, including insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia, can further impact tumor growth and development. This review describes how adipose tissue becomes inflamed in obesity, summarizes ways these mechanisms impact cancer development, and discusses their role in four adipose-associated cancers that demonstrate elevated incidence or mortality in obesity.
Pathogenesis of Myeloproliferative Disorders
Authors: Nangalia Jyoti , Grinfeld Jacob , Green Anthony R.
Published: May 2016

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are a set of chronic hematopoietic neoplasms with overlapping clinical and molecular features. Recent years have witnessed considerable advances in our understanding of their pathogenetic basis. Due to their protracted clinical course, the evolution to advanced hematological malignancies, and the accessibility of neoplastic tissue, the study of MPNs has provided a window into the earliest stages of tumorigenesis. With the discovery of mutations in CALR, the majority of MPN patients now bear an identifiable marker of clonal disease; however, the mechanism by which mutated CALR perturbs megakaryopoiesis is currently unresolved. We are beginning to understand better the role of JAK2V617F homozygosity, the function of comutations in epigenetic regulators and spliceosome components, and how these mutations cooperate with JAK2V617F to modulate MPN phenotype.
Role of lateral septum glucagon-like peptide 1 receptors in food intake
Authors: Terrill Sarah J. , Jackson Christine M. , Greene Hayden E. , Lilly Nicole , Maske Calyn B. , Vallejo Samantha , Williams Diana L.
Published: May 2016

Hindbrain glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) neurons project to numerous forebrain areas, including the lateral septum (LS). Using a fluorescently labeled GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonist, Exendin 4 (Ex4), we demonstrated GLP-1 receptor binding throughout the rat LS. We examined the feeding effects of Ex4 and the GLP-1R antagonist Exendin (9–39) (Ex9) at doses subthreshold for effect when delivered to the lateral ventricle. Intra-LS Ex4 suppressed overnight chow and high-fat diet (HFD) intake, and Ex9 increased chow and HFD intake relative to vehicle. During 2-h tests, intra-LS Ex9 significantly increased 0.25 M sucrose and 4% corn oil. Ex4 can cause nausea, but intra-LS administration of Ex4 did not induce pica. Furthermore, intra-LS Ex4 had no effect on anxiety-like behavior in the elevated plus maze. We investigated the role of LS GLP-1R in motivation for food by examining operant responding for sucrose on a progressive ratio (PR) schedule, with and without a nutrient preload to maximize GLP-1 neuron activation. The preload strongly suppressed PR responding, but blockade of GLP-1R in the intermediate subdivision of the LS did not affect motivation for sucrose under either load condition. The ability of the nutrient load to suppress subsequent chow intake was significantly attenuated by intermediate LS Ex9 treatment. By contrast, blockade of GLP-1R in the dorsal subdivision of the LS increased both PR responding and overnight chow intake. Together, these studies suggest that endogenous activity of GLP-1R in the LS influence feeding, and dLS GLP-1Rs, in particular, play a role in motivation.
Spontaneously active NaV1.5 sodium channels may underlie odor sensitivity
Authors: Dionne Vincent E.
Published: May 2016

The olfactory system is remarkably sensitive to airborne odor molecules, but precisely how very low odor concentrations bordering on just a few molecules per olfactory sensory neuron can trigger graded changes in firing is not clear. This report reexamines signaling in olfactory sensory neurons in light of the recent account of NaV1.5 sodium channel-mediated spontaneous firing. Using a model of spontaneous channel activity, the study shows how even submillivolt changes in membrane potential elicited by odor are expected to cause meaningful changes in NaV1.5-dependent firing. The results suggest that the random window currents of NaV1.5 channels may underpin not only spontaneous firing in olfactory sensory neurons but the cellular response to odor as well, thereby ensuring the robustness and sensitivity of signaling that is especially important for low odor concentrations.
Catalogue of the mite families Ascidae Voigts & Oudemans, Blattisociidae Garman and Melicharidae Hirschmann (Acari: Mesostigmata)
Authors: MORAES GILBERTO J. DE , BRITTO ERIKA P.J. , MINEIRO JEFFERSON L. DE C. , HALLIDAY BRUCE
Published: May 2016

Until recently, mites in the families Ascidae, Blattisociidae and Melicharidae together constituted what was considered to be a single family, the Ascidae (sensu lato). We include all three families in this catalogue because of their many morphological similarities, as well as for historic and ecological reasons. Together with most Phytoseiidae and some Ameroseiidae, these are the only mesostigmatid mites commonly found on plants. In this publication we initially provide a historic overview of these groups, summarising the changes in the taxonomic concepts of the genera and other subfamilial taxa. This is followed by a thorough characterisation of each family and genus. A dichotomous key for the separation of families and genera is included. We then list the species considered to belong to these families, with details of the literature concerning the taxonomy of each species, and information about their type specimens and type localities wherever possible. The numbers of taxa considered as valid in this publication are: 372 species in 17 genera of Ascidae, 367 species in 14 genera of Blattisociidae, and 206 species in 11 genera of Melicharidae. We attempt to place each species in the most appropriate genus. In doing so, we propose 30 new combinations, including a species here transferred from Ascidae sensu stricto to Rhodacaridae. We propose five new names to replace junior homonyms, one new generic synonymy, and one new specific synonymy. Some species are insufficiently known and could not be reliably placed in any genus; these are listed as species incertae sedis. We also provide a list of species and genera that have been placed in these families at some time, but which have been transferred to other groups.
A review of the subfamily Picobiinae Johnston and Kethley, 1973 (Acariformes: Prostigmata: Syringophilidae)
Authors: SKORACKI MACIEJ , SIKORA BOZENA , SPICER GREG S.
Published: May 2016

The fauna of quill mites of the subfamily Picobiinae Johnston and Kethley, 1973 (Acariformes: Cheyletoidea: Syringophilidae) is comprehensively revised. All of 78 known species, which are grouped into 11 genera, are examined and diagnosed or redescribed. Data on picobiine hosts and distribution are summarized, including new host and locality records. The following new species are described: Charadriineopicobia apricaria sp. nov. ex Pluvialis apricaria (Linnaeus) (Charadriiformes: Charadriidae) from France, Neopicobia pari sp. nov. ex Periparus venustulus Swinhoe (type host) (Passeriformes: Paridae) from China, Parus major Linnaeus (Paridae) from Macedonia and Finland, and Poecile varius Temminck and Schlegel (Paridae) from Japan, Picobia magellani sp. nov. ex Scytalopus magellanicus (Gmelin) (Passeriformes: Rhinocryptidae) from Colombia, Picobia lonchura sp. nov. ex Lonchura leucogastra (Blyth) (Passeriformes: Estrildidae) from Indonesia, Picobia makoli sp. nov. ex Xiphocolaptes promeropirhynchus (Lesson) (Passeriformes: Furnariidae) from Colombia. The species Picobia polonica Skoracki, Magowski and Dabert, 2001 syn. nov. is a junior synonym of C. khulkhaskhani Kivganov and Sharafat, 1995. The following new combinations are proposed: Neopicobia ictericus (Skoracki and Glowska, 2010) comb. nov., Rafapicobia brotogeris (Fain, Bochkov and Mironov, 2000) comb. nov., and Rafapicobia ramphastos (Fain, Bochkov and Mironov, 2000) comb. nov. Keys to the all picobiine genera and species are presented, along with a check-list of picobiine species and their hosts.
High Cloud Responses to Global Warming Simulated by Two Different Cloud Microphysics Schemes Implemented in the Nonhydrostatic Icosahedral Atmospheric Model (NICAM)
Authors: Chen Ying-Wen , Seiki Tatsuya , Kodama Chihiro , Satoh Masaki , Noda Akira T. , Yamada Yohei
Published: May 2016

This study examines cloud responses to global warming using a global nonhydrostatic model with two different cloud microphysics schemes. The cloud microphysics schemes tested here are the single- and double-moment schemes with six water categories: these schemes are referred to as NSW6 and NDW6, respectively. Simulations of one year for NSW6 and one boreal summer for NDW6 are performed using the nonhydrostatic icosahedral atmospheric model with a mesh size of approximately 14 km. NSW6 and NDW6 exhibit similar changes in the visible cloud fraction under conditions of global warming. The longwave (LW) cloud radiative feedbacks in NSW6 and NDW6 are within the upper half of the phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5)–Cloud Feedback Model Intercomparison Project 2 (CFMIP2) range. The LW cloud radiative feedbacks are mainly attributed to cirrus clouds, which prevail more in the tropics under global warming conditions. For NDW6, the LW cloud radiative feedbacks from cirrus clouds also extend to midlatitudes. The changes in cirrus clouds and their effects on LW cloud radiative forcing (LWCRF) are assessed based on changes in the effective radii of ice hydrometeors () and the cloud fraction. It was determined that an increase in has a nonnegligible impact on LWCRF compared with an increase in cloud fraction.
Rotarex Mechanical Debulking in Acute and Subacute Arterial Lesions
Authors: Freitas Bruno , Steiner Sabine , Bausback Yvonne , Branzan Daniela , Ülrich Matthias , Bräunlich Sven , Schmidt Andrej , Scheinert Dierk
Published: May 2016

Introduction:

Data regarding the effectiveness and safety of percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy (PMT) in contemporary routine care are scarce.

Materials and Methods:

Consecutive patients undergoing PMT of native lower limb acutely/subacutely occluded arteries were included.

Results:

In all, 525 consecutive patients were available for analysis with a mean age of 66.7 ± 10.7 years. Almost two-third (n = 324; 61.7%) were men with acutely (n = 211; 40.2%) or subacutely (n = 314; 59.8%) occluded lesions presenting mostly in Rutherford-Becker category (RBC): 3 (30.3%) and 4 (47.6%). Mean lesion length was 159 mm (range 22-279 mm), with moderate and severe calcification in 119 (23.3%) lesions. PMT was performed solely in 161(27.2%), PMT + balloon angioplasty in 232 (39.1%), provisional stenting in 169 (28.4%), and thrombolysis in 77 (13.9%) interventions. Procedural technical success rate was 97.7%, with improvement in RBC persisting in 74.1% of patients after 12 ± 2.4 months mean time follow-up. Overall 30 days major adverse events (MAEs) was 6.9% with a mortality rate of 1.1%. No death was directly related to the device. After 12 months, a promising overall target lesion revascularization (TLR; 10.1%), non-TLR (6.6%), and major amputation rates (2.3%) were found. One-year mortality was 8%.

Conclusion:

Treatment with PMT resulted in clinic and hemodynamic improvement in the majority of patients, thereby reducing the need for thrombolysis in a significant proportion of patients. Prospective studies in this issue are recommended.
Do Physicians Change Prescription Practice in Response to Financial Incentives?
Authors: Park Sylvia , Han Euna
Published: May 2016

We assessed the impact on physician prescription behaviors of an outpatient prescription incentive program providing financial rewards to primary care physicians for saving prescription costs in South Korea. A 10% sample of clinics (N = 1,625) was randomly selected from all clinics in the National Health Insurance claims database for the years 2009–2012, and all claims with the primary diagnosis of peptic ulcer or gastro-esophageal reflux diseases were extracted from those clinics’ data. A clinic-level random-effects model was used. After the program, clinics in general medicine showed a lower prescription rate (by 0.8 percentage points), lower number of medicines prescribed (by 0.02), lower prescription duration (by 0.15 days), and lower drug expenditure per claim (by 740 won). Small clinics on the <25th percentile of a regional sum of monthly drug expenditure had shorter prescription duration (by 0.76 days), while large clinics on the ≥75th percentile and clinics in group practice had a higher prescription rate (by 1.5 and 2.5 percentage points, respectively) and a higher number of medicines prescribed (by 0.03 for group practice only) after the program. The outpatient prescription incentive program worked as intended only in certain subgroup clinics for the target medicines.
Mode-dependent controller design for networked control system with average dwell time switching
Authors: Wu Ying , Wu Yanpeng , Zhao Yue
Published: May 2016

This paper studies the modelling and stabilization problem for a class of networked control systems (NCSs) with random time delays and packed dropouts based on the average dwell time (ADT) switching approach. A new effective sampling method is presented to deal with time-varying delays, which finally reduces the high dimension and complexity of the NCS model. A class of subsystems is developed for NCS based on a set of switching signals triggered by discretized time delays and packet dropouts. By constructing multiple quadratic Lyapunov-like functions that allowed both decreasing and increasing, sufficient switched stability conditions are derived and a set of mode-dependent feedback controllers are designed for each active mode based on the ADT switching control method to guarantee the stability of the proposed switched NCS with admissible ADT. A do-loop linear matrix inequalities (LMI) optimization problem is formulated to find the control law without predefining the switching sequence and the times when network-induced factors occur. A numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Aging-related alterations in eNOS and nNOS responsiveness and smooth muscle reactivity of murine basilar arteries are modulated by apocynin and phosphorylation of myosin phosphatase targeting subunit-1
Authors: Lubomirov Lubomir T , Papadopoulos Symeon , Pütz Sandra , Welter Johannes , Klöckener Tim , Weckmüller Kathrin , Ardestani Mostafa A , Filipova Dilyana , Metzler Doris , Metzner Harald , Staszewski Jürgen , Zittrich Stefan , Gagov Hristo , Schroeter Mechthild M , Pfitzer Gabriele
Published: May 2016

Aging causes major alterations of all components of the neurovascular unit and compromises brain blood supply. Here, we tested how aging affects vascular reactivity in basilar arteries from young (<10 weeks; y-BA), old (>22 months; o-BA) and old (>22 months) heterozygous MYPT1-T-696A/+ knock-in mice. In isometrically mounted o-BA, media thickness was increased by ∼10% while the passive length tension relations were not altered. Endothelial denudation or pan-NOS inhibition (100 µmol/L L-NAME) increased the basal tone by 11% in y-BA and 23% in o-BA, while inhibition of nNOS (1 µmol/L L-NPA) induced ∼10% increase in both ages. eNOS expression was ∼2-fold higher in o-BA. In o-BA, U46619-induced force was augmented (pEC50 ∼6.9 vs. pEC50 ∼6.5) while responsiveness to DEA-NONOate, electrical field stimulation or nicotine was decreased. Basal phosphorylation of MLC20-S19 and MYPT1-T-853 was higher in o-BA and was reversed by apocynin. Furthermore, permeabilized o-BA showed enhanced Ca2+-sensitivity. Old T-696A/+ BA displayed a reduced phosphorylation of MYPT1-T696 and MLC20, a lower basal tone in response to L-NAME and a reduced eNOS expression. The results indicate that the vascular hypercontractility found in o-BA is mediated by inhibition of MLCP and is partially compensated by an upregulation of endothelial NO release.
Quantitative methods II
Authors: Brunsdon Christopher
Published: May 2016

Although classical significance testing is the most commonly used inferential technique in quantitative geography, it is far from the only choice, and in some circumstances may not be the most appropriate. In the statistical literature and other disciplines, its utility has come under question in a number of contexts. This report overviews current progress in the development of quantitative inferential approaches, and considers their use and appropriateness in a number of human geographical contexts.
Viscoelastically prestressed polymeric matrix composites: An overview
Authors: Fancey Kevin S
Published: May 2016

Elastically prestressed polymeric matrix composites exploit the principles of prestressed concrete, i.e. fibres are stretched elastically during matrix curing. On matrix solidification, compressive stresses are created within the matrix, counterbalanced by residual fibre tension. Unidirectional glass fibre elastically prestressed polymeric matrix composites have demonstrated 25–50% improvements in impact toughness, strength and stiffness compared with control (unstressed) counterparts. Although these benefits require no increase in section dimensions or weight, the need to apply fibre tension during curing can impose restrictions on processing and product geometry. Also, fibre–matrix interfacial creep may eventually cause the prestress to deteriorate. This paper gives an overview of an alternative approach: viscoelastically prestressed polymeric matrix composites. Here, polymeric fibres are subjected to tensile creep, the applied load being removed before the fibres are moulded into the matrix. Following matrix curing, viscoelastic recovery mechanisms cause the previously strained fibres to impart compressive stresses to the matrix. Since fibre stretching and moulding operations are decoupled, viscoelastically prestressed polymeric matrix composite production offers considerable flexibility. Also, the potential for deterioration through fibre–matrix creep is offset by longer term viscoelastic recovery mechanisms. To date, viscoelastically prestressed viscoelastically prestressed polymeric matrix composites have been produced from fibre reinforcements such as nylon 6,6, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and bamboo. Compared with control counterparts, mechanical property improvements are similar to those of elastically prestressed polymeric matrix composites. Of major importance, however, is longevity: through accelerated ageing, nylon fibre-based viscoelastically prestressed viscoelastically prestressed polymeric matrix composites show no deterioration in mechanical performance over a duration equivalent to ∼25 years at 50℃ ambient. Potential applications include crashworthy and impact-absorbing structures, dental materials, prestressed precast concrete and shape-changing (morphing) structures.
Response of circular GLARE fiber–metal laminates subjected to oblique indentation
Authors: Bikakis George SE
Published: May 2016

This article deals with the static response of thin circular clamped GLAss REinforced fiber–metal laminates subjected to oblique indentation. The indentation response is initially predicted using ANSYS software and a three-dimensional nonlinear finite element analysis with geometric and material nonlinearities. From this analysis, the load-indentation and the strain energy-indentation curves are calculated. Postprocessing of the obtained Finite Element Method (FEM) results reveals how GLAss REinforced plates respond to oblique indentation. Then, analytical formulas are derived to predict the GLAss REinforced plate indentation load and strain energy as a function of the oblique indentor’s displacement and the direction of indentation. The derived analytical formulas are applied successfully for circular GLAss REinforced plates with various diameters and indentation directions. The analytically predicted load-indentation and strain energy-indentation curves are compared with corresponding Finite Element Method (FEM) results and a very good agreement is found.
Potential Effects of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs in the Prevention and Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Bellucci Pamela Natalia , González Bagnes María Florencia , Di Girolamo Guillermo , González Claudio Daniel
Published: May 2016

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a group of heterogeneous drugs largely known for their anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and analgesic effects, which are met by means of the inhibition of the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. Even when their use in patients with diabetes mellitus is limited due to relevant adverse events, some pharmacological and metabolic effects of NSAIDs have been further studied to be potentially beneficial in the prevention and/or treatment of diabetic subjects. Effects on endogenous glucose production, peripheral insulin resistance, pancreatic islet, and systemic inflammation and the insulin clearance have been reported. In this article, we overview the scientific literature of the last 5 years regarding the potential effects of NSAID treatment on diabetes prevention/treatment. The selected papers showed information in both humans and animal models. Furthermore, we included papers that suggest new areas for further investigation, and we discussed our own suggestions on this matter.
Analytical solution for nonlinear oscillation of workpiece in turning process
Authors: Jalili Mohammad Mahdi , Emami Hasan
Published: May 2016

Chatter phenomenon is one of the essential problems in metal machining processes. It causes cutting tool wear and increase of production costs. Chatter vibration is an unstable self-excited vibration that the regenerative chatter is its most common type. In this paper, regenerative chatter in turning process is investigated. A three-dimensional nonlinear dynamic model of the turning process including both structural and cutting force nonlinearities and gyroscopic effects is presented. The workpiece is modeled as a rotating clamped–free beam which is excited by cutting forces. Using the method of multiple-scales, analytical approximate response of the system is obtained. To validate the model its responses are compared with the experimental results. Using this model the influences of tool longitudinal position, workpiece diameter, depth of cut, and rotational speed of workpiece on the stability results are studied. Using these results, turning velocity intervals for stable and unstable cuts are determined.
Mechanical properties and biocompatibility of co-axially electrospun polyvinyl alcohol/maghemite
Authors: Ngadiman Nor Hasrul Akhmal , Mohd Yusof Noordin , Idris Ani , Kurniawan Denni
Published: May 2016

Electrospinning is a simple and efficient process in producing nanofibers. To fabricate nanofibers made of a blend of two constituent materials, co-axial electrospinning method is an option. In this method, the constituent materials contained in separate barrels are simultaneously injected using two syringe nozzles arranged co-axially and the materials mix during the spraying process forming core and shell of the nanofibers. In this study, co-axial electrospinning method is used to fabricate nanofibers made of polyvinyl alcohol and maghemite (γ-Fe2O3). The concentration of polyvinyl alcohol and amount of maghemite nanoparticle loading were varied, at 5 and 10 w/v% and at 1–10 v/v%, respectively. The mechanical properties (strength and Young’s modulus), porosity, and biocompatibility properties (contact angle and cell viability) of the electrospun mats were evaluated, with the same mats fabricated by regular single-nozzle electrospinning method as the control. The co-axial electrospinning method is able to fabricate the expected polyvinyl alcohol/maghemite nanofiber mats. It was noticed that the polyvinyl alcohol/maghemite electrospun mats have lower mechanical properties (i.e. strength and stiffness) and porosity, more hydrophilicity (i.e. lower contact angle), and similar cell viability compared to the mats fabricated by single-nozzle electrospinning method.
Max Scheler’s influence on Kurt Schneider
Authors: Cutting John , Mouratidou Maria , Fuchs Thomas , Owen Gareth
Published: May 2016

Kurt Schneider (1887–1967) met Max Scheler (1874–1928) in 1919 when he enrolled in the latter’s philosophy seminars at the University of Cologne. Kurt Schneider was then a junior psychiatrist and Max Scheler a renowned philosophy professor and co-founder of the phenomenological movement in philosophy. We uncover the facts about their intellectual and personal relationship, summarize the main articles and books that they wrote and consider whether Max Scheler did influence the young Kurt Schneider. We conclude that Scheler’s philosophy of emotion impressed Schneider, and that the latter’s notion of ‘vital depression’ as the core element in melancholia was essentially applied Schelerian philosophy. Schneider’s more celebrated contributions to psychiatry – his notion of first rank symptoms of schizophrenia – owed nothing to Scheler or any other philosopher.
Mapping the Gendered Contexts of the ‘Glocal’ Nation: A Critical Rereading of Alka Saraogi’s Kali-katha: Via Bypass
Authors: Arora Bharti
Published: May 2016

The announcement of the new economic policy in 1991 pushed India into hitherto unchartered domains of liberalisation, globalisation and privatisation. Many literary writings by Indian women published in the 1990s and 2000s reflect the rupture of Nehruvian model of development as India entered and settled itself in the brave new world of globalisation. Reading Alka Saraogi’s Kali-katha: Via Bypass (1998), this article attempts to explore how women writers in the post-1991 era negotiated the category of nation and its concomitant identity politics when it was impinged on by the looming spectre of liberalisation and globalisation. When we place women’s writing at the interstices of gender, caste and class inequalities alongside the syndicated structures of nation and globalisation, we find how deeply it engages with the fundamental asymmetry of power relations in society. Kali-katha: Via Bypass attempts to trace the kind of changes that have been taking place since the onset of the 1990s, proposing a rethinking of the very terms in which the woman’s question has been framed in the post-independence years. Thereby, this text calls for revising the way we have been constructing our knowledge of the nation, especially its gendered contexts. Such an epistemological revision, however, would not preclude looking at the past, suggests the text.
Fever, confusion, acute kidney injury: is this atypical neuroleptic malignant syndrome following polypharmacy with clozapine and risperidone?
Authors: Cherry Scott , Siskind Dan , Spivak Valeria , Wysoczanski Daniel , Halangoda Priyangika
Published: May 2016

Objective:

Clozapine is the gold-standard antipsychotic medication for treatment-refractory schizophrenia (TRS). However, one potentially lethal side effect of clozapine, as with other antipsychotics, is neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) which could present differently in clozapine therapy. ‘Atypical NMS’ is a recognised variant of NMS with less rigidity and delayed elevation of creatine kinase; this variant is associated with clozapine.

Method:

A case from the author’s clinical practice was reviewed.

Results:

A 67-year-old man with TRS was treated with clozapine. Unfortunately, his physical condition deteriorated and he presented with atypical NMS, which initially was treated as presumable urinary tract infection.

Conclusions:

Atypical NMS is associated with clozapine. This case exposes the potential difficulties in diagnosis, and highlights the importance of considering less common diagnoses in acutely unwell psychiatric patients.
Analysis based on the energy release rate criterion of a dynamically growing crack approaching an interface
Authors: Djoković Jelena M , Nikolić Ružica R , Šumarac Dragoslav M , Bujnak Jan
Published: May 2016

A problem of a dynamically growing crack, which is approaching an interface between the two elastic isotropic materials at an arbitrary angle, is considered in this paper. That crack could behave in three ways: (i) it can arrest at contact with the interface, (ii) it can deflect into the interface and continue to propagate along it or (iii) the crack can penetrate the interface and continue to propagate in the material across it. The competition between the latter two cases can be estimated by considering the ratio of the energy release rates necessary for the crack penetrating the interface and for the crack deflecting into the interface. A concept that the criterion for the dynamic crack growth in homogeneous solids could be based on the static stress field, with addition of the stress intensity factor dependent on time, is used here to explain the behavior of the crack approaching the interface in dynamic loading conditions. Obtained results enable comparison of the interface dynamic fracture toughness to the fracture toughness of the base material (without the interface), to determine whether the incoming crack would deflect into or would penetrate the interface. If the ratio between the dynamic fracture toughness of the interface and the dynamic fracture toughness of the material into which the crack continues to propagate was less than the ratio of the dynamic release rates for the deflecting and penetrating crack, the incoming crack would deflect into the interface. If the case was reversed, the crack would cross the interface and continue to propagate in the material across it. Comparison of results for the load phase angle dependence on the crack tip propagation speed and on the approaching angle, obtained by this criterion and by the maximum stress direction criterion, proves the validity of the energy release rate concept adopted in this analysis.
Exacerbation of Acute Intermittent Porphyria by Nortriptyline
Authors: Krummel Stephen J. , Wesner Robert B.
Published: May 2016

Many medications have been reported to produce attacks of acute intermittent porphyria (AIP). Nortriptyline has been reported to be safe in porphyric patients. We present a case of AIP exacerbated by nortriptyline.
Effect of Topically Applied Flurbiprofen on Ultraviolet-Induced Erythema
Authors: Tan Paul , Flowers Franklin P. , Araujo Oscar E. , Doering Paul
Published: May 2016

The effect of flurbiprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent, on ultraviolet B-induced erythema was studied in normal volunteers. The effect of various concentrations as well as the effect of multiple applications were evaluated at 4, 8, and 24 hours after irradiation with three MEDs of ultraviolet B. Repeated applications of flurbiprofen during the four- and eight-hour periods following ultraviolet B exposure did not increase the blanching response obtained following a single treatment. A concentration dependent effect of flurbiprofen on blanching was observed with suppression of erythema increasing with increasing concentration of flurbiprofen up to 3%. Further increase in concentration up to 5% offered no added advantage. Significant differences in blanching were also observed at different postirradiation time periods. No cutaneous or systemic complications were reported during the entire study.
Chordoid Glioma of Third Ventricle With an Epidermoid Cyst
Authors: Poyuran Rajalakshmi , Mahadevan Anita , Sagar B K Chandrasekhar , Saini Jitender , Srinivas Dwarakanath
Published: May 2016

Chordoid glioma (CG) is a World Health Organization classified grade II tumor located exclusively in the region of anterior third ventricle. Association of CG with other lesions is extremely rare. We report a case of CG in a 45-year-old male coexisting with an epidermoid cyst in the third ventricle. Ultrastructural examination of the CG revealed microvilli, junctional complexes, and intermediate filaments within the cytoplasm suggesting origin from specialized ependyma. The association of the 2 lesions appears coincidental as convincing evidence for a common histogenesis was not found.
Cytomegalovirus Scrotal Ulcer in a Renal Transplant Patient
Authors: Pinca Rebeca , Crawford Richard I. , Au Sheila
Published: May 2016

Background:

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a highly prevalent herpesvirus that can present with cutaneous disease in immunocompromised individuals. This may reflect systemic involvement, which is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.

Objective:

To report a case of cutaneous CMV in an immunocompromised patient and to discuss the differential diagnosis of genital ulcers.

Methods:

A medical chart review was conducted on a patient who presented with a scrotal ulcer after renal transplantation. A review of the literature on cutaneous CMV disease was also completed.

Results:

Biopsy of the scrotal ulcer revealed classic findings of CMV disease. The patient also developed CMV viremia. Treatment with valganciclovir resolved his scrotal ulcer and viremia.

Conclusion:

The differential diagnosis for genital ulcers is broad, especially in the immunocompromised patient. Cutaneous CMV disease should be ruled out with biopsy and immunohistochemical examination in immunocompromised patients, as it may reflect systemic involvement and significantly affect patient care.
What is your MBA for? What’s the story?
Authors: Ruth Damian
Published: May 2016

This article shows how the MBA plays a role in some students’ lives that goes beyond conscious cost–benefit analyses and instrumental value and engages the personal and intimate. It presents a thematic analysis of essays written by MBA students exploring what their MBA was for. The analysis revealed that the MBA functioned as an element or character in a life story and how, in some instances, doing the MBA was not about the MBA as such. The article advances our understanding of the MBA as an element in a life story, as a rite of passage, and as part of the intersection of boundaryless careers and changeable life patterns. Enhancing the awareness of this on the part of students may improve their understanding of what they are doing by embarking on an MBA and could enhance the ability of faculty and business schools to address the sometimes less explicit interests of their students. The article also confirms the value of a qualitative ‘storied’ approach to the study of the MBA.
Building a place brand from the bottom up
Authors: Hudson Simon , Cárdenas David , Meng Fang , Thal Karen
Published: May 2016

In an increasingly competitive global marketplace, the need for towns and cities to create a unique identity, to differentiate themselves from competitors, has become critical. Many places promote spectacular scenery, good quality of life, friendly people, and a sound business infrastructure. However, these factors are no longer differentiators, so places need a strong brand identity to stand out in order to attract people to live, work, and play. But brand development is often driven by short-term top-down approaches with limited community participation, where the primary tool of brand expression becomes the final marketing campaign. This article reports on a qualitative approach to build a place brand from the bottom up, with wide participation from all members of the community. With a methodology based on place brand-building theory, charettes and in-depth interviews were conducted with local stakeholders, resulting in a positioning statement that was used to develop brand communications materials. Based on the research process and results of the case study, the authors present a community-based place brand development model.
Social interactions and children with asthma
Authors: Dowell Jo A
Published: May 2016

This article reviews the literature on the effects of living in a disenfranchised community for low-income African American children who have asthma. The review focuses on social integration, social network, interactions with parents, and limited cultural resources, which lead to negative health outcomes among these children.
Book review: Ncube, Mthuli and Lufumpa, Charles Leyeka, editors. 2015: The Emerging Middle Class in Africa
Authors: Patgiri Rituparna
Published: May 2016

Ncube, Mthuli and Lufumpa, Charles Leyeka, editors. 2015: The Emerging Middle Class in Africa. Abingdon and New York: Routledge 215 pp. $47.40 (paperback). ISBN: 978-1138796430 (paperback). $140 (hardcover). ISBN: 978-1138796423.
Comparison of Radiation Exposure Associated With Intraoperative Cone-Beam Computed Tomography and Follow-up Multidetector Computed Tomography Angiography for Evaluating Endovascular Aneurysm Repairs
Authors: Steuwe Andrea , Geisbüsch Philipp , Schulz Christof J. , Böckler Dittmar , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Stiller Wolfram
Published: May 2016

Purpose: To compare the radiation exposure associated with intraoperative contrast-enhanced cone-beam computed tomography (ceCBCT) acquisitions to standard 3-phase multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) angiography used for assessing technical success after endovascular aortic repair (EVAR). Methods: Effective doses (EDs) were calculated for 66 EVAR patients (mean age 71 years; 61 men) with a mean 27.7-kg/m2 body mass index (range 17–49) who had both intraoperative ceCBCT and postoperative 3-phase MDCT angiography between November 2012 and April 2015. In addition, EDs were directly determined using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) embedded in anthropomorphic phantoms with body mass indexes of 22 and 30 kg/m2. Effective doses were calculated by summing doses recorded by all TLDs corresponding to a specific tissue type before applying the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) 60 and 103 weighting factors. EDs were compared with each other for both imaging modalities as well as to TLD measurements. Results: Average EDs of the patient collective were 4.9±1.1 mSv for ceCBCT, 2.6±1.2 mSv for single-phase MDCT (46% decrease, covering solely the area of the implanted endograft), and 13.6±5.5 mSv for comprehensive 3-phase MDCT examinations (178% increase, anatomical coverage from the aortic arch to femoral artery bifurcation). EDs determined in phantom measurements ranged from 3.1 to 4.5 mSv for ceCBCT, amounting to 2.6 mSv for a single MDCT phase (15% to 40% decrease) using ICRP 60 conversion factors. Applying ICRP 103 factors resulted in higher values for ceCBCT and slightly lower ones for MDCT. Conclusion: ceCBCT offers the chance for immediate intraoperative revisions of endograft-related problems. Requiring only a single-phase acquisition, ceCBCT is associated with a considerable reduction in ED (50%–75%) compared to standard 3-phase MDCT angiography after EVAR. On the other hand, MDCT has a larger field of view and is associated with less radiation exposure for a single phase (reduction of 20%–60%) if only the stented region is covered; however, MDCT angiography also uses larger amounts of contrast.
Sarajevo’s ambivalent memoryscape: Spatial stories of peace and conflict
Authors: Kappler Stefanie
Published: May 2016

This article focuses on Sarajevo’s memoryscape to investigate the ambiguous nature of artefacts of commemoration. Suggesting that memorials impact the ways in which people relate to the past and future, the article suggests that they represent important platforms on which different versions of peace and social justice are implicitly narrated and discussed. Depending on the artist/designer, the location, the shape, the audience and the surrounding socio-political discourses, memorials inspire and transform stories of war and peace. The controversies around the Sarajevo roses or monuments dedicated to the international community in Sarajevo mirror controversial societal debates around the nature and politics of peace(building). Conflict and contestation can thus be read through closer investigation of the maps of meaning underpinning the commemoration of certain events. Due to their ambiguous nature, monuments can be used as a platform for the constant transformation of discourses of peace into conflict, and vice versa.
Healthy universities: an example of a whole-system health-promoting setting
Authors: Newton Joanne , Dooris Mark , Wills Jane
Published: May 2016

The health-promoting settings approach is well established in health promotion, with organisational settings being understood as complex systems able to support human wellbeing and flourishing. Despite the reach and evident importance of higher education as a sector, ‘healthy universities’ has not received high-level international leadership comparable to many other settings programmes. This study explores how the concept of a healthy university is operationalised in two case study universities. Data collection methods included documentary analysis, observation field notes and semi-structured interviews with staff and students. Staff and students understood the characteristics of a healthy university to pertain to management processes relating to communication and to a respectful organisational ethos. Enhancers of health and wellbeing were feeling valued, being listened to, having skilled and supportive line managers and having a positive physical environment. Inhibitors of health and wellbeing were having a sense of powerlessness and a lack of care and concern. The concept of the healthy university has been slow to be adopted in contrast to initiatives such as healthy schools. In addition to challenges relating to lack of theorisation, paucity of evidence and difficulties in capturing the added value of whole-system working, this study suggests that this may be due to both their complex organisational structure and the diverse goals of higher education, which do not automatically privilege health and wellbeing. It also points to the need for a whole-university approach that pays attention to the complex interactions and interconnections between component parts and highlights how the organisation can function effectively as a social system.
Equity, sustainability and governance in urban settings
Authors: Rice Marilyn , Hancock Trevor
Published: May 2016

In this commentary the urban setting is explored from the perspective of ecological sustainability and social equity. Urban-related issues are highlighted related to social inequality, deficits in urban infrastructures, behavior-related illnesses and risks, global ecological changes, and urban sprawl. Approaches to addressing these issues are described from the perspective of urban governance, urban planning and design, social determinants of health, health promotion, and personal and community empowerment. Examples of successful strategies are provided from Latin America, including using participatory instruments (assessments, evaluation, participatory budgeting, etc.), establishing intersectoral committees, increasing participation of civil society organizations, and developing virtual forums and networks to channel participatory and collaborative processes. A way forward is proposed, using the urban setting to show the imperative of creating intersectoral policies and programs that produce environments that are both healthy and sustainable. It will be important to include new forms of social participation and use social media to facilitate citizen decision-making and active participation of all sectors of society, especially excluded groups.
Piecing the puzzle together: case studies of international research in health-promoting sports clubs
Authors: Kokko Sami , Donaldson Alex , Geidne Susanna , Seghers Jan , Scheerder Jeroen , Meganck Jeroen , Lane Aoife , Kelly Bridget , Casey Meghan , Eime Rochelle , Villberg Jari , Kannas Lasse
Published: May 2016

This paper seeks to review the current international health-promoting sports club (HPSC) research, drawing together findings based on case studies from various countries to illustrate the status of HPSCs. In addition, future challenges for HPSC research and implementation are considered. The review includes six case studies from five countries. In summary, there are two major research themes in this area, namely ‘research into HPSC activity’ and ‘research into HPSC networks’. The first theme investigates the extent to which sports clubs and/or national sports organisations invest in health promotion (HP) – both in policy and practice. The latter theme is driven by an intention to widen the scope of HPSCs to reach novel internal actors, like parents, siblings, etc., and/or external non-sporting bodies, like communities, schools, etc. The future challenges for HPSC research require a better understanding of the motives, barriers and capacities of sports clubs and coaches. Sports organisations, clubs and coaches generally support the intent of the HPSC concept, but even with the best evidence- or theory-based HP programmes/guidelines/standards, nothing will happen in practice if the nature and capacities of sports clubs are not better acknowledged. Therefore, a call for embracing implementation science is finally made to enhance implementation.
Following the trend for a comprehensive healthy workplace in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Ruey-Yu , Yu Li-Hui
Published: May 2016

To promote workers’ health and boost corporate productivity and national competitiveness, workplace health promotion is an international trend and a vital part of national policies. Prior to 2000, Taiwan’s workplace issues focused on industrial hygiene and safety improvements. Since 2003, the Health Promotion Administration (HPA) at the Ministry of Health and Welfare has established coaching centers for workplace health promotion and dispatched trained experts for teaching health promotion skills; including promoting the tobacco control program, preventing important chronic diseases, driving comprehensive programs, advocating workplace health promotion with the Ministry of Labor, establishing certification mechanisms for workplace health promotion, recognizing outstanding health-promoting workplaces, and conducting a nationwide survey for monitoring the practices of healthy behaviors and health conditions of workers. Through 2014, 12,439 workplaces have been accredited.

Since 2003, the efforts of the HPA in workplace health promotion projects has shifted society’s focus on workplace health from occupational diseases and injury prevention to workplace health promotion, resulting in the revision of the Occupational Safety and Health Act in 2013 by the Ministry of Labor to detail employers’ responsibilities in protecting and promoting employees’ health and well-being.