bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tanreqing Injection Attenuates Lipopolysaccharide‐Induced Airway Inflammation through MAPK/NF‐κB Signaling Pathways in Rats Model
Authors: Liu Wei , Jiang Hong-li , Cai Lin-li , Yan Min , Dong Shou-jin , Mao Bing
Published: June 2016

Background. Tanreqing injection (TRQ) is a commonly used herbal patent medicine for treating inflammatory airway diseases in view of its outstanding anti‐inflammatory properties. In this study, we explored the signaling pathways involved in contributions of TRQ to LPS‐induced airway inflammation in rats. Methods/Design. Adult male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats randomly divided into different groups received intratracheal instillation of LPS and/or intraperitoneal injection of TRQ. Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid (BALF) and lung samples were collected at 24 h, 48 h, and 96 h after TRQ administration. Protein and mRNA levels of tumor necrosis factor‐ (TNF‐) α, Interleukin‐ (IL‐) 1β, IL‐6, and IL‐8 in BALF and lung homogenate were observed by ELISA and real‐time PCR, respectively. Lung sections were stained for p38 MAPK and NF‐κB detection by immunohistochemistry. Phospho‐p38 MAPK, phosphor‐extracellular signal‐regulated kinases ERK1/2, phospho‐SAPK/JNK, phospho‐NF‐κB p65, phospho‐IKKα/β, and phospho‐IκB‐α were measured by western blot analysis. Results. The results showed that TRQ significantly counteracted LPS‐stimulated release of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and IL‐8, attenuated cells influx in BALF, mitigated mucus hypersecretion, suppressed phosphorylation of NF‐κB p65, IκB‐α, ΙKKα/β, ERK1/2, JNK, and p38 MAPK, and inhibited p38 MAPK and NF‐κB p65 expression in rat lungs. Conclusions. Results of the current research indicate that TRQ possesses potent exhibitory effects in LPS‐induced airway inflammation by, at least partially, suppressing the MAPKs and NF‐κB signaling pathways, in a general dose‐dependent manner.
Subcritical Water Technology for Enhanced Extraction of Biochemical Compounds fromChlorella vulgaris
Authors: Awaluddin S. A. , Thiruvenkadam Selvakumar , Izhar Shamsul , Hiroyuki Yoshida , Danquah Michael K. , Harun Razif
Published: June 2016

Subcritical water extraction (SWE) technology has been used for the extraction of active compounds from different biomass materials with low process cost, mild operating conditions, short process times, and environmental sustainability. With the limited application of the technology to microalgal biomass, this work investigates parametrically the potential of subcritical water for high-yield extraction of biochemicals such as carbohydrates and proteins from microalgal biomass. The SWE process was optimized using central composite design (CCD) under varying process conditions of temperature (180–374°C), extraction time (1–20 min), biomass particulate size (38–250 μm), and microalgal biomass loading (5–40 wt.%).Chlorella vulgarisused in this study shows high volatile matter (83.5 wt.%) and carbon content (47.11 wt.%), giving advantage as a feedstock for biofuel production. The results showed maximum total carbohydrate content and protein yields of 14.2 g/100 g and 31.2 g/100 g, respectively, achieved under the process conditions of 277°C, 5% of microalgal biomass loading, and 5 min extraction time. Statistical analysis revealed that, of all the parameters investigated, temperature is the most critical during SWE of microalgal biomass for protein and carbohydrate production.
In Vitro Cytotoxicity of Mesoporous SiO2@Eu(OH)3Core-Shell Nanospheres in MCF-7
Authors: Atif M. , Fakhar-e-Alam Muhammad , Abbas Najeeb , Siddiqui Maqsood A. , Ansari Anees A. , Al-Khedhairy Abdulaziz A. , Wang Zhiming M.
Published: June 2016

Initially, the sample was synthesized by a modified sol-gel process. Morphological analysis of growth SiO2@Eu(OH)3was confirmed by applying field emission transmission electron microscopy (high and low resolution FETEM). The images confirmed the average diameter of mesoporous SiO2@Eu(OH)3core-shell nanospheres (~392–400 nm) with a silica core of ~230 nm in diameter and a shell composed of europium hydroxide ~162 nm (thickness). Moreover, an absorption band at 280 nm was confirmed which initiates from the europium hydroxide. The photoluminescence spectrum of the nanosphere was also recorded at ambient temperature under the excitation of 3.82 eV. Cytotoxic studies in vitro were performed by applying MTT, NR assays, and morphological analysis. Morphological changes and % loss in cellular viability was assessed in human breast cancer cells (MCF-7) labeled with mesoporous SiO2@Eu(OH)3core-shell nanospheres at different concentrations ranging from 10 µg/mL to 200 µg/mL. Current study demonstrates the quite rational strategy which might be useful in future clinical approach/applications.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Presenting with Massive Ascites: A Case of Pseudo-Pseudo Meigs Syndrome
Authors: McVorran S. , Song J. , Pochineni V. , Abrudescu-Opran A.
Published: June 2016

The case presented is consistent with the phenomenon known as Pseudo-Pseudo Meigs Syndrome (PPMS). In it, we describe a young woman with newly diagnosed Systemic Lupus Erythematosus presenting with ascites, pleural effusions, and an elevated CA-125 level. Although rare, and of uncertain etiology, PPMS is becoming increasingly recognized in the literature. It should be considered as a differential diagnosis in such patients, along with the search for malignancy.
Tumor Necrosis Factor-Like Weak Inducer of Apoptosis Accelerates the Progression of Renal Fibrosis in Lupus Nephritis by Activating SMAD and p38 MAPK in TGF-β1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Liu Zhiqin , Xue Leixi , Liu Zhichun , Huang Jun , Wen Jian , Hu Ji , Bo Lin , Yang Ru
Published: June 2016

This study aim was to explore the effects of tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) in lupus nephritis and its potential underlying mechanisms. MRL/lpr mice were used forin vivoexperiments and human proximal tubular cells (HK2 cells) were used forin vitroexperiments. Results showed that MRL/lpr mice treated with vehicle solution or LV-Control shRNA displayed significant proteinuria and severe renal histopathological changes. LV-TWEAK-shRNA treatment reversed these changes and decreased renal expressions of TWEAK, TGF-β1, p-p38 MAPK, p-Smad2, COL-1, andα-SMA proteins.In vitro, hTWEAK treatment upregulated the expressions of TGF-β1, p-p38 MAPK, p-SMAD2,α-SMA, and COL-1 proteins in HK2 cells and downregulated the expressions of E-cadherin protein, which were reversed by cotreatment with anti-TWEAK mAb or SB431542 treatment. These findings suggest that TWEAK may contribute to chronic renal changes and renal fibrosis by activating TGF-β1 signaling pathway, and phosphorylation of Smad2 and p38 MAPK proteins was also involved in this signaling pathway.
Vascular Protective Role of Samul‐Tang in HUVECs: Involvement of Nrf2/HO‐1 and NO
Authors: Choi Eun Sik , Lee Yun Jung , Seo Chang Seob , Yoon Jung Joo , Han Byung Hyuk , Park Min Cheol , Kang Dae Gill , Lee Ho Sub
Published: June 2016

Samul‐Tang (Si‐Wu‐Tang, SMT), composed of four medicinal herbs, is a well‐known herbal formula treating hematological disorder or gynecologic disease. However, vascular protective effects of SMT and its molecular mechanisms on the vascular endothelium, known as the central spot of vascular inflammatory process, are not reported. The aim of this study was to investigate vascular protective effects of SMT water extract in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Water extract of SMT was prepared and identified by HPLC‐PDA analysis. Expression of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) and heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) and translocation of nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) and nuclear factor‐erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) were determined by western blot. Nuclear localization of NF‐κB and Nrf2 was visualized by immunofluorescence and DNA binding activity of NF‐κB was measured. ROS production, HL‐60 monocyte adhesion, and intracellular nitric oxide (NO) were also measured using a fluorescent indicator. SMT suppressed NF‐κB translocation and activation as well as expression of CAMs, monocyte adhesion, and ROS production induced by TNF‐α in HUVECs. SMT treated HUVECs showed upregulation of HO‐1 and NO which are responsible for vascular protective action. Our study suggests that SMT, a traditionally used herbal formula, protects the vascular endothelium from inflammation and might be used as a promising vascular protective drug.
Characteristics of Nonmotor Symptoms in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy
Authors: Ou Ruwei , Song Wei , Wei Qianqian , Chen Ke , Cao Bei , Hou Yanbing , Zhao Bi , Shang Huifang
Published: June 2016

Objectives. To explore the clinical correlates of nonmotor symptoms (NMS) in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and their differences from healthy controls and patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).Methods. Twenty-seven PSP patients, 27 age- and gender-matched healthy controls (HC), and 27 age- and gender-matched PD patients were included for this case-control study. NMS were assessed using the Nonmotor Symptoms Scale (NMSS, including 9 domains).Results. All PSP patients reported NMS. The frequency and severity of “sleep/fatigue,” “mood/apathy,” “attention/memory,” “gastrointestinal,” “sexual dysfunction,” and “miscellaneous” domains in PSP group were significantly higher than those in HC group (P<0.05). The frequency of “mood/apathy,” “attention/memory,” and “sexual dysfunction” domains and the severity of “attention/memory” and “gastrointestinal” domains in PSP group were significantly higher than those in PD group (P<0.05). The “attention/memory” domain in PSP had a significant but weak-to-moderate correlation with age (R=0.387,P=0.046) and onset age (R=0.406,P=0.036).Conclusions. NMS are common in PSP patients. Patients with PSP seem to be subjected to more frequent and severe specific NMS compared to healthy aging subjects and PD patients. Older PSP patients and late-onset patients are likely to be subjected to cognitive decline.
DNMT1 Inhibition Reprograms Pancreatic Cancer Stem Cells via Upregulation of the miR-17-92 Cluster
Authors: Zagorac Sladjana , Alcala Sonia , Fernandez Bayon Gustavo , Bou Kheir Tony , Schoenhals Matthieu , González-Neira Anna , Fernandez Fraga Mario , Aicher Alexandra , Heeschen Christopher , Sainz Bruno
Published: June 2016

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and other carcinomas are hierarchically organized, with cancer stem cells (CSC) residing at the top of the hierarchy, where they drive tumor progression, metastasis, and chemoresistance. As CSC and non-CSC share an identical genetic background, we hypothesize that differences in epigenetics account for the striking functional differences between these two cell populations. Epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, play an important role in maintaining pluripotency and regulating the differentiation of stem cells, but the role of DNA methylation in pancreatic CSC is obscure. In this study, we investigated the genome-wide DNA methylation profile of PDAC CSC, and we determined the importance of DNA methyltransferases for CSC maintenance and tumorigenicity. Using high-throughput methylation analysis, we discovered that sorted CSCs have a higher level of DNA methylation, regardless of the heterogeneity or polyclonality of the CSC populations present in the tumors analyzed. Mechanistically, CSC expressed higher DNMT1 levels than non-CSC. Pharmacologic or genetic targeting of DNMT1 in CSCs reduced their self-renewal and in vivo tumorigenic potential, defining DNMT1 as a candidate CSC therapeutic target. The inhibitory effect we observed was mediated in part through epigenetic reactivation of previously silenced miRNAs, in particular the miR-17-92 cluster. Together, our findings indicate that DNA methylation plays an important role in CSC biology and also provide a rationale to develop epigenetic modulators to target CSC plasticity and improve the poor outcome of PDAC patients. Cancer Res; 76(15); 4546–58. ©2016 AACR.
Molecular Pathways: Endothelial Cell FAK—A Target for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Roy-Luzarraga Marina , Hodivala-Dilke Kairbaan
Published: June 2016

The nonreceptor protein tyrosine kinase, focal adhesion kinase (FAK, also known as PTK2), is a key mediator of signal transduction downstream of integrins and growth factor receptors in a variety of cells, including endothelial cells. FAK is upregulated in several advanced-stage solid tumors and has been described to promote tumor progression and metastasis through effects on both tumor cells and stromal cells. This observation has led to the development of several FAK inhibitors, some of which have entered clinical trials (GSK2256098, VS-4718, VS-6062, VS-6063, and BI853520). Resistance to chemotherapy is a serious limitation of cancer treatment and, until recently, most studies were restricted to tumor cells, excluding the possible roles performed by the tumor microenvironment. A recent report identified endothelial cell FAK (EC-FAK) as a major regulator of chemosensitivity. By dysregulating endothelial cell–derived paracrine (also known as angiocrine) signals, loss of FAK solely in the endothelial cell compartment is able to induce chemosensitization to DNA-damaging therapies in the malignant cell compartment and thereby reduce tumor growth. Herein, we summarize the roles of EC-FAK in cancer and development and review the status of FAK-targeting anticancer strategies. Clin Cancer Res; 22(15); 3718–24. ©2016 AACR.
SIX1 Oncoprotein as a Biomarker in a Model of Hormonal Carcinogenesis and in Human Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Suen Alisa A. , Jefferson Wendy N. , Wood Charles E. , Padilla-Banks Elizabeth , Bae-Jump Victoria L. , Williams Carmen J.
Published: June 2016

The oncofetal protein sine oculis-related homeobox 1 (SIX1) is a developmental transcription factor associated with carcinogenesis in several human cancer types but has not been investigated in human endometrial cancer. In a model of hormonal carcinogenesis, mice neonatally exposed to the soy phytoestrogen genistein (GEN) or the synthetic estrogen diethylstilbestrol (DES) develop endometrial cancer as adults. Previously, we demonstrated that SIX1 becomes aberrantly expressed in the uteri of these mice. Here, we used this mouse model to investigate the role of SIX1 expression in endometrial carcinoma development and used human tissue microarrays to explore the utility of SIX1 as a biomarker in human endometrial cancer. In mice neonatally exposed to GEN or DES, the Six1 transcript level increased dramatically over time in uteri at 6, 12, and 18 months of age and was associated with development of endometrial carcinoma. SIX1 protein localized within abnormal basal cells and all atypical hyperplastic and neoplastic lesions. These findings indicate that developmental estrogenic chemical exposure induces persistent endometrial SIX1 expression that is strongly associated with abnormal cell differentiation and cancer development. In human endometrial tissue specimens, SIX1 was not present in normal endometrium but was expressed in a subset of endometrial cancers in patients who were also more likely to have late-stage disease. These findings identify SIX1 as a disease biomarker in a model of hormonal carcinogenesis and suggest that SIX1 plays a role in endometrial cancer development in both mice and women.

Implications: The SIX1 oncoprotein is aberrantly expressed in the endometrium following developmental exposure to estrogenic chemicals, correlates with uterine cancer, and is a biomarker in human endometrial cancers. Mol Cancer Res; 14(9); 849–58. ©2016 AACR.
The Influence of Moisture and Temperature on the Behavior of Soil Resistivity in Earthing Design Using Finite Element Method
Authors: Samadinasab Sajad , Namdari Farhad , Bakhshipor Mohammad
Published: June 2016

Protection of equipment, safety of persons and continuity of power supply are the main objectives of the grounding system. For its accurate design, it is essential to determine the potential distribution on the earth surface and the equivalent resistance of the system. The knowledge of such parameters allows checking the security offered by the grounding system when there is a failure in the power systems.A new method to design an earthing systems using Finite Element Method (FEM) is presented in this article.In this approach, the influence of the moisture and temperature on the behavior of soil resistivity are considered in EARTHING system DESIGN. The earthing system is considered to be a rod electrode and a plate type electrode buried vertically in the ground.The resistance of the system which is a very important factor in the design process is calculated using Finite Element Method. Finite Element Method is used to estimate the solution of the partial differential equation that governs the system behavior. COMSOL Multiphysics 4.4 which is one of the packages that work with the FEM is used as a tool in this design.Finally the values of the resistance obtained by COMSOL Multiphysics are compared with the proven analytical formula values for the ground resistance, in order to prove the work done with COMSOL Multiphysics.
New design of Network on Chip Based on Virtual Routers
Authors: Fehmi Chatmen Mohamed , Baganne Adel , Tourki Rached
Published: June 2016

Network is considered the most convenient way to communicate between different IP integrated into the same chip. Studies have been developed to propose networks with improved performance in terms of latency, power consumption, throughput and quality of service. Most of these networks have been designed based on the 2-dimensional network structure. Recently, with the introduction of the new structure of 3D integrated circuits (3D IC), new works have used this type of circuit to design 3 dimensions on-chip networks. The advantage brought by this new structure is to reduce the average number of hops crossed from the source to the destination, which improves the throughput and the average latency of the network.
Optimization of Ship’s Route Scheduling Using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Wijayaningrum Vivi Nur , Mahmudy Wayan Firdaus
Published: June 2016

Route scheduling is a quite complicated process because it involves some determinant factors. Several methods have been used to help resolve the NP-hard problems. This research uses genetic algorithm to assist in optimizing ship scheduling, that where there are several ports to be visited by some ships. The goal is to divide the ship to go to a specific port so that each port is only visited by one ship to minimize the total distance of all ships. The computational experiment produces optimal parameters such as the number of popsize is 30, the number of generations is 100, crossover rate value is 0.3 and mutation rate values is 0.7. The final results is an optimal ship route by minimizing the distance of each ship.
Finding Kicking Range of Sepak Takraw Game: Fuzzy Logic and Dempster-Shafer Theory Approach
Authors: Maseleno Andino , Hasan Md. Mahmud , Muslihudin Muhammad , Susilowati Tri
Published: June 2016

Sepak takraw is played by two regus, each consisting of three players. One of the three players shall be at the back and he is called a Tekong. The other two players shall be in front, one on the left and the other on the right. Having volley kicked a throw from the net by a team mate, the ball must then travel over the net to begin play. During the service, as soon as the Tekong kicks the ball, all the players are allowed to move about freely in their respective courts. The novel approach is the integration within a Tsukamoto's Fuzzy reasoning and inferences for evidential reasoning based on Dempster-Shafer theory. Sepak takraw is a highly complex net-barrier kicking sport that involves dazzling displays of quick reflexes, acrobatic twists, turns and swerves of the agile human body movement. Because of the humanâ€™s involvement in the game, the Fuzzy Logic type reasoning are the most appropriate. The individual rule outputs of Tsukamoto's Fuzzy reasoning scheme are crisp numbers, and therefore, the functional relationship between the input vector and the system output can be relatively easily identified. The result reveals that if  Tekong is kick far and front player is kick near then another regu's player is kick far, if  Tekong is kick near and front player is kick far then another regu's player is kick near, moreover possibility of kicking range is another regu's player is kick far in kicking range.
Satellite-Based Land Surface Temperature Estimation of Bogor, Indonesia
Authors: Kurnia Ema , Jaya I Nengah Surati , Atmaka Widi
Published: June 2016

 The earth’s average temperature has been a big issue on the global warming. The warming of the earth is largely the results of emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses (GHG) from human activities. As a hinterland of the Capital City, in the last two decades, Bogor is also getting warmer in comparison with the previous decades. This paper presents how the land surface temperature (LST) had been estimated using Split-Window (SW) algorithm and how its spatial distribution in Bogor was computed. The spectral radiance of Landsat-8 TIR bands 10 and 11, the emissivity values, and water vapor used as the input on SW Algorithm. The study revealed that the temperature within the built-up area, have warmer temperature than their surrounding ranging from 400C to 450C of 3,403.9 ha. The use of SW algorithm is quite reliable and accurate to estimate the LST derived from Landsat-8 having a mean deviation of only 2.7%, less than standard acceptable of 10%.
Optimal Selection of UPFC Parameters and Input Controlling Signal for Damping Power System Oscillations
Authors: Salehi Moslem , Motie Birjandi Ali Akbar
Published: June 2016

 Unified power flow controller (UPFC), as one of the most important FACTS devices, can be used to increase the damping of power system oscillation. The effect rate of this controller on increasing oscillation damping depends on the appropriate selection of input controlling signal, optimal selection of UPFC controlling parameters, and its proper position in power system. In this paper, the capability of different UPFC inputs is studied by utilizing singular value decomposition (SVD) method and the best UPFC input controlling signal is selected. Supplementary control parameters are also optimally selected by PSO algorithm. This method's accuracy is simulated on a single-machine system connected to infinite bus.
C‐Reactive Protein Identifies Low‐Risk Metabolically Healthy Obese Persons: The European Prospective Investigation of Cancer–Norfolk Prospective Population Study
Authors: van Wijk Diederik F. , Boekholdt S. Matthijs , Arsenault Benoit J. , Ahmadi‐Abhari Sara , Wareham Nicholas J. , Stroes Erik S. G. , Khaw Kay‐Tee
Published: June 2016

Background

Conflicting data exist about the cardiovascular risk of metabolically healthy obese persons. The prognostic value of C‐reactive protein (
CRP
) in this intriguing group is unknown. We assessed the association between
CRP
levels and the risk of coronary heart disease (
CHD
) in metabolically healthy persons with abdominal obesity.

Methods and Results

In the European Prospective Investigation of Cancer–Norfolk prospective cohort,
CRP
levels and information on metabolic syndrome criteria were available for 7279 participants, of whom 825 (11%) developed
CHD
during a follow‐up period of 10.9±1.8 years. There was a trend toward a higher multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratio for
CHD
in metabolically healthy obese participants with
CRP
levels >2 mg/L compared with <2 mg/L (hazard ratio 1.59, 95%
CI
0.97–2.62,
P
=0.066). Metabolically unhealthy obese participants had significantly higher
CHD
risk compared with metabolically healthy obese participants with
CRP
levels <2 mg/L (hazard ratio 1.88, 95%
CI
1.20–2.94,
P
=0.006). Most important, we found that the risk of
CHD
among metabolically healthy obese persons with
CRP
levels <2 mg/L was comparable to that of metabolically healthy nonobese persons (hazard ratio 0.91, 95%
CI
0.60–1.39,
P
=0.674).

Conclusions

Among metabolically healthy obese persons, low
CRP
levels were associated with a
CHD
risk comparable to that of metabolically healthy nonobese persons.
CRP
appears to be an easy and widely available method for identifying a low‐risk subpopulation among metabolically healthy obese persons.
Teacher Trust in District Administration
Authors: Adams Curt M. , Miskell Ryan C.
Published: June 2016

Purpose: We set out in this study to establish a foundation for a line of inquiry around teacher trust in district administration by (1) describing the role of trust in capacity building, (2) conceptualizing trust in district administration, (3) developing a scale to measure teacher trust in district administration, and (4) testing the relationship between district trust and teacher commitment. Method: Teachers were the unit of analysis. Data were collected from a sample of teachers in one urban school district. Construct validity was assessed by examining content, structural, and convergent validity of the scale. A fully latent structural equation model was used to test the relationship between teacher trust in district administration and teacher commitment. Results: This study makes a strong case for developing a line of research on teacher trust in district administration. It establishes a good measure to use in future research, and it provides initial evidence showing that teacher beliefs are sensitive to the actions of district administrators. Implications: A valid and reliable measure can be used by researchers to study systematically the formation and effects of teacher trust in district administration. Accurate information on district trust also allows central office leaders to formatively assess the capacity of the school system to accomplish reform objectives at scale.
Mental health literacy in Hong Kong
Authors: Lui Christopher , Wong Cheuk , Furnham Adrian
Published: June 2016

Background and aims:

The aim of this study was to investigate Hong Kong nationals’ ability to recognize 13 different mental disorders and to examine whether there may be a relationship between their mental health literacy (MHL) and their tendency to describe/explain symptoms of mental disorders in physical terms.

Methods:

A total of 299 participants took part in this study and the vignettes depict post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), dependent personality disorder, schizotypal personality disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, agoraphobia, bipolar disorder, social phobia, panic disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, schizophrenia and antisocial personality disorder.

Results:

Overall, OCD was the best identified and the personality disorders were the worst. A significant negative correlation was found between participants’ MHL and the rate of offering a ‘physical’ rather than a ‘psychological’ explanation. Some mental disorders were better recognized than others such as OCD (40.1%) and depression (36.3%). However, the majority of the other disorders were very poorly recognized and labelled with the rest having ‘correct response’ rates of lower than 15%. Over half of the mental disorders had ‘correct’ response rates of lower than 5%.

Conclusion:

In accordance with many other studies in the area, this study found Asian participants poor at recognizing mental disorders. This is probably due to the fact that mental illnesses of all kinds remain a taboo topic.
Economic sanctions, military interventions, and civil conflict outcomes
Authors: Lektzian David , Regan Patrick M
Published: June 2016

Sanctions are designed to reduce the amount of resources available to the targeted actor and have the potential to be an effective tool for bringing disputing sides in a civil conflict to the bargaining table by altering incentives for continued fighting. Thus, there is reason to believe that sanctions can shorten the duration of civil conflicts. However, once sides in a conflict have moved to the use of violence to settle their dispute, it is hard for sanctions, in isolation, to impose enough cost to convince warring factions that settling a conflict has greater value than what could be expected from continued fighting. In this article, we argue that sanctions, in isolation, are unlikely to affect the duration of civil conflicts. However, when sanctions are combined with military interventions they can contribute to conflict management strategies resulting in shorter civil conflicts. We test our expectations empirically using data on civil conflicts from the Uppsala Conflict Data Program Armed Conflict Database and data on economic sanctions from the Threat and Imposition of Economic Sanctions Database. Our results suggest that the best hope for sanctions to shorten the duration of civil conflicts is if they are used as part of a comprehensive international response that includes institutional sanctions and military interventions.
Perceived Autonomy Support and Behavioral Engagement in Physical Education
Authors: Hein Vello
Published: June 2016

The role of emotion as moderator of the relationships between perceived autonomy supportive behavior and autonomous motivation and between motivation and behavioral engagement in physical education are discussed.
L2 Willingness to Communicate, Openness to Experience, Extraversion, and L2 Unwillingness to Communicate: The Iranian EFL Context
Authors: Khany Reza , Nejad Ali Mansouri
Published: June 2016

This study examines the relationship between L2 willingness to communicate (L2WTC), L2 unwillingness to communicate (L2UWTC) and the personality traits of openness to experience and extraversion in an Iranian context. The Pearson correlation and descriptive statistics were used to analyse the results from a study with 217 English major students. A model for L2WTC was proposed and examined by employing structural equation modelling (SEM). The results showed that openness to experience and extraversion were the main predictors of L2WTC. The paths from openness to experience and extraversion to L2UWTC were not significant. In addition, a negative path was found from L2UWTC to L2WTC. The proposed model proved to be a good fit to the data collected. The results provided implications for the applicability of the L2WTC model to the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) context.
Impact of seam types on thermal properties of athletic bodywear
Authors: Beaudette Eric , Park Huiju
Published: June 2016

This study investigated the differences in thermal properties of primary seam types used in athletic apparel construction. Traditional seam types, such as overlock and flatlock, as well as adhesive films, were studied. Laboratory experiments in a controlled environment showed that adhesives created a considerably thinner seam than the other methods, while flatlock seaming showed the greatest increase in the garment weight because of dense stitching. A series of thermal manikin tests and statistical analysis showed a significantly higher thermal insulation rating in a bodysuit constructed with flatlock seams, which was found to have lower air permeability than the overlock and adhesive physical property testing samples. There was no significant difference in water vapor transport properties among the three test seams. The findings of this study provide the impacts of seams on thermal properties of active bodywear, which may have practical applications in the sports apparel industry’s decision-making in activewear design and production.
Heat and mass transfer through outerwear clothing for protection from cold: influence of geometrical, structural and mass characteristics of the textile layers
Authors: Angelova Radostina A , Reiners Priscilla , Georgieva Elena , Konova Hristina Plamenova , Pruss Bianca , Kyosev Yordan
Published: June 2016

This paper presents a comprehensive experimental study, conducted on a series of woven and non-woven fabric samples from different materials (cotton, polyester, and polyamide) and 14 three-layer systems of textile materials, used for production of outerwear clothing for protection from cold. Heat and mass transfer properties, related to the thermophysiological comfort of the outerwear clothing, namely conductive thermal resistance, water vapor resistance, relative water vapor permeability, air permeability, accumulative one-way transport of liquids, and overall moisture management capacity, were determined for the system of layers and the compound single layers. The transfer properties of the single layers were presented as a function of their thickness, mass per unit area, and areal porosity. The transfer properties of the system of layers were presented as a function of the thickness, mass per unit area, and bulk density of the systems. Regression analysis was applied to derive regression equations. The results obtained allowed assessment of the existence and trend of the influence, as well as evaluation of the strength of the dependences.
Robust output feedback control of 2D discrete systems with actuator saturation and time-varying delay
Authors: Pal Vipin Chandra , Negi Richa
Published: June 2016

An observer-based dynamic output feedback H∞ controller is proposed for a class of two-dimensional (2D) uncertain discrete systems described by the Roesser model with actuator saturation, time-varying state delay and external disturbances. First, a delay-dependent Lyapunov stability condition is derived in linear matrix inequality (LMI) form which uses the reciprocal convex approach and H∞ disturbance attenuation performance is also analysed. Secondly, a convex hull is adopted to represent the saturation nonlinearity. The H∞ control synthesis for uncertain 2D discrete systems is described by a Roesser model subjected to actuator saturation and external disturbances using an observer-based dynamic output feedback approach. Some practical examples are provided to highlight the usefulness of the presented results.
Fault diagnosis based on a novel weighted support vector data description with fuzzy adaptive threshold decision
Authors: Zhou Jianzhong , Fu Wenlong , Zhang Yongchuan , Xiao Han , Xiao Jian , Zhang Chu
Published: June 2016

The fault diagnosis of generator units is critical to guarantee the high efficiency of the electric system. However, detailed fault samples are difficult to obtain, and the distribution of fault samples usually shows the characteristics of unevenness and unbalance, which may lead to low fault diagnosis precision. Nevertheless, it has been seldom considered in the traditional classifier of fault diagnosis for generator units until now. In this paper, a novel fault classifier of weighted support vector data description (SVDD) with fuzzy adaptive threshold decision is proposed and applied in the fault diagnosis of generator units. To tackle the drawback that SVDD is sensitive to the distribution of samples, a novel SVDD model based on a complex weight is proposed. The complex weight is assigned with local density and size-based weight, while local density of each data point is obtained with the k-nearest neighbour approach and the size-based weight of each data point is computed according to the proportion of classes. Then the conventional SVDD is reformulated with the complex weights. Furthermore, new decision rules based on the relative distance and fuzzy adaptive threshold decision are applied to identify the class of testing samples. Finally, the proposed method is applied in the identification of several standard datasets, as well as the fault diagnosis for a turbo-generator unit. Experimental results and the engineering application reveal that the proposed method shows good performance in accuracy and universality, and is suitable for the fault diagnosis of generator units.
When do we offer more support than we seek? A behavioral replication and developmental extension
Authors: Beck Lindsey A. , Clark Margaret S. , Olson Kristina R.
Published: June 2016

Beck and Clark (2009) found self-report evidence that adults are more likely to offer support to a potential friend than to seek identical support from that potential friend, but that this asymmetry between offering and seeking support weakens among close friends. The present study sought to behaviorally replicate these findings in adults as well as to explore the developmental emergence of this phenomenon by examining when children would display similar patterns of offering and seeking support. Four-year-olds, 6-year-olds, 8-year-olds, and adults were given opportunities to offer or request identical support from peers. Sometimes participants were close friends; sometimes they were potential friends. The findings for adults’ support behaviors replicated previous self-report findings. Adults were more likely to offer support than to request identical support from potential friends, whereas adults were just as likely to request support as they were to offer support to close friends; 8-year-olds showed a similar pattern of behaviors. However, 4- and 6-year-olds did not distinguish between potential and close friends; they were just as likely to request support as they were to offer support to both potential and close friends. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding how these support processes unfold in new, developing relationships compared to in close, established relationships, as well as of understanding when these processes might emerge during childhood.
Confirmatory factor analysis of 12-Item World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule in patients with musculoskeletal pain conditions
Authors: Saltychev Mikhail , Mattie Ryan , McCormick Zachary , Laimi Katri
Published: June 2016

Objective:

To investigate the factor structure of the 12 item World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS) 2.0.

Design:

Cross-sectional cohort survey study.

Setting:

Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine outpatient university clinic.

Subjects:

The 408 consecutive patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain.

Main measures:

Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis.

Results:

A two-factor model most accurately fit the observed data of musculoskeletal pain patients (root mean square error of approximation 0.049, relative Chi square value 1.99). Twelve WHODAS 2.0 items were distributed between two factors with covariance between them of 0.8. The first factor contained domains related mostly to physical functioning, while another was associated mostly with social and cognitive functioning. There were a few differences between single items in their importance in defining the variance within these two factors. Of the six International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health domains belonging to the first construct, the ability to carry out household responsibilities explained most, 84% of the total variance in this construct. For the second factor, the ability to participate in community activities seemed to be the most important, explaining 85% of the total variance in this construct.

Conclusions:

In this study, the two-factor structure model of the 12-item WODAS 2.0 demonstrated the most accurate fit within patients with musculoskeletal pain conditions.
Advance care planning, palliative care, and end-of-life care interventions for homeless people: A systematic review
Authors: Sumalinog Rafael , Harrington Katy , Dosani Naheed , Hwang Stephen W
Published: June 2016

Background:

Homeless individuals have a high prevalence of multiple chronic comorbidities and early mortality compared to the general population. They also experience significant barriers to access and stigmatization in the healthcare system. Providing advance care planning, palliative care, and end-of-life care for this underserved population is an important health issue.

Aim:

To summarize and evaluate the evidence surrounding advance care planning, palliative care, and end-of-life care interventions for homeless persons.

Design:

A systematic review based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement.

Data sources:

Articles from MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Social Work Abstracts, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and PubMed databases were searched through 13 June 2015. Peer-reviewed studies that implemented advance care planning, palliative care, and end-of-life care interventions for homeless populations were included. Data from studies were independently extracted by two investigators using pre-specified criteria, and quality was assessed using modified Cochrane and Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tools.

Results:

Six articles met inclusion criteria. Two studies were randomized controlled trials involving advance directive completion. Two cohort studies investigated the costs of a shelter-based palliative care intervention and predictors for completing advance directives. These studies were rated low to fair quality. Two qualitative studies explored the interface between harm-reduction services and end-of-life care and the conditions for providing palliative care for homeless persons in a support home.

Conclusion:

The effectiveness of advance care planning, palliative care, and end-of-life care interventions for homeless individuals is uncertain. High-quality studies of interventions that reflect the unique and complex circumstances of homeless populations and investigate patient-related outcomes, caregiver burden, and cost-effectiveness are needed.
Development of a measure (ICECAP-Close Person Measure) through qualitative methods to capture the benefits of end-of-life care to those close to the dying for use in economic evaluation
Authors: Canaway Alastair , Al-Janabi Hareth , Kinghorn Philip , Bailey Cara , Coast Joanna
Published: June 2016

Background:

End-of-life care affects both the patient and those close to them. Typically, those close to the patient are not considered within economic evaluation, which may lead to the omission of important benefits resulting from end-of-life care.

Aim:

To develop an outcome measure suitable for use in economic evaluation that captures the benefits of end-of-life care to those close to the dying.

Design:

To develop the descriptive system for the outcome measure, in-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with the participants and constant comparative analysis methods were used to develop a descriptive system for the measure.

Participants:

Twenty-seven individuals bereaved within the last 2 years or with a close-person currently receiving end-of-life care were purposively recruited into the study. Participants were recruited through newsletters, adverts, snowball sampling and a local hospice.

Results:

Twenty-seven individuals were recruited. A measure of capability with six attributes, each with five levels, was developed based on themes arising from the analysis. Attributes comprise the following: good communication with services, privacy and space to be with the loved one, emotional support, practical support, being able to prepare and cope and being free from emotional distress related to the condition of the decedent.

Conclusion:

This measure is designed to capture the benefits of end-of-life care to close-persons for use in economic evaluation. Further research should value the measure and develop methods for incorporating outcomes for close-persons into economic evaluation.
Effects of a social internet-based intervention programme for older adults: An explorative randomised crossover study
Authors: Larsson Ellinor , Padyab Mojgan , Larsson-Lund Maria , Nilsson Ingeborg
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Restraints and changes in social activities might contribute to loneliness and health decline for older adults. To reduce loneliness and support activities, social internet-based interventions are indicated to be effective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a social internet-based intervention for older adults who are vulnerable to loneliness.

Method

An explorative, randomised, crossover study with an AB/BA sequence was completed. The intervention was conducted over a period of three months. Thirty participants were included (24 women and six men, 61–89 years old) and allocated to two groups. Data were collected at three time points. The primary outcome was the UCLA loneliness scale, and the secondary outcomes were satisfaction with social contacts and social interaction skills. Statistical analyses were conducted with the paired t-test, Wilcoxon's signed-rank test and repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Results

Loneliness was significantly decreased in both groups post intervention, and satisfaction with social contacts online significantly increased in one group. Significant treatment effects were detected for all outcomes.

Conclusion

The results of the social internet-based intervention programme are promising, but further evaluations are needed.
A new vocational rehabilitation service delivery model addressing long-term sickness absence
Authors: Sheppard Dianne M , Frost Dorothy
Published: June 2016

Statement of context

Evidence supports the benefits of providing early intervention following non-catastrophic musculoskeletal injury to facilitate successful and sustained resumption of work.

Critical reflection on practice

Not returning to work within a few months post-musculoskeletal injury can complicate the recovery and return to work process. A recently developed vocational rehabilitation model attempts to impact where others have failed.

Implications for practice

This novel, evidence-based service delivery model aligns well with the theory of planned behaviour and current psychosocial models of work disability, and provides vital support to individuals who find themselves out of work for periods greater than 12 months.
Picturing urban subterranea: Embodied aesthetics of London’s sewers
Authors: Garrett Bradley L
Published: June 2016

As cities around the world are tunnelled and hollowed to new depths, geographers are giving increasing attention to infrastructure in the context of verticality, often framed through urban planning or geopolitics. This paper responds to calls from geography and the wider geohumanities for ethnographic and aesthetic consideration of vertical infrastructures by reflecting on London’s sewer system as a site of embodied engagement and creative imagination. Once venerated by the press and public as engineering, medical and aesthetic triumphs, London’s sewers are thought to have morphed into sites of ubiquitous obscurity. This paper counters this understanding by considering bodies, technologies and activities through time that have shaped imaginations of London’s main drainage, including the work of contemporary urban explorers. I argue that although the current aestheticization of infrastructural spaces in London is connected to particular technologies, politics and geographical concerns of the present, it also echoes body-space interventions and affects across a 150-year span. This aesthetic legacy is a crucial pillar in our understandings of urban verticality.