bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assembly Line Productivity Assessment by Comparing Optimization-Simulation Algorithms of Trajectory Planning for Industrial Robots
Authors: Rubio Francisco , Llopis-Albert Carlos , Valero Francisco , Suñer Josep Lluís
Published: June 2015

In this paper an analysis of productivity will be carried out from the resolution of the problem of trajectory planning of industrial robots. The analysis entails economic considerations, thus overcoming some limitations of the existing literature. Two methodologies based on optimization-simulation procedures are compared to calculate the time needed to perform an industrial robot task. The simulation methodology relies on the use of robotics and automation software called GRASP. The optimization methodology developed in this work is based on the kinematics and the dynamics of industrial robots. It allows us to pose a multiobjective optimization problem to assess the trade-offs between the economic variables by means of the Pareto fronts. The comparison is carried out for different examples and from a multidisciplinary point of view, thus, to determine the impact of using each method. Results have shown the opportunity costs of non using the methodology with optimized time trajectories. Furthermore, it allows companies to stay competitive because of the quick adaptation to rapidly changing markets.
Macitentan, a Dual Endothelin Receptor Antagonist, in Combination with Temozolomide Leads to Glioblastoma Regression and Long-term Survival in Mice
Authors: Kim Sun-Jin , Lee Ho Jeong , Kim Mark Seungwook , Choi Hyun Jin , He Junqin , Wu Qiuyu , Aldape Kenneth , Weinberg Jeffrey S. , Yung W.K. Alfred , Conrad Charles A. , Langley Robert R. , Lehembre François , Regenass Urs , Fidler Isaiah J.
Published: June 2015

Purpose: The objective of the study was to determine whether astrocytes and brain endothelial cells protect glioma cells from temozolomide through an endothelin-dependent signaling mechanism and to examine the therapeutic efficacy of the dual endothelin receptor antagonist, macitentan, in orthotopic models of human glioblastoma.

Experimental Design: We evaluated several endothelin receptor antagonists for their ability to inhibit astrocyte- and brain endothelial cell–induced protection of glioma cells from temozolomide in chemoprotection assays. We compared survival in nude mice bearing orthotopically implanted LN-229 glioblastomas or temozolomide-resistant (LN-229Res and D54Res) glioblastomas that were treated with macitentan, temozolomide, or both. Tumor burden was monitored weekly with bioluminescence imaging. The effect of therapy on cell division, apoptosis, tumor-associated vasculature, and pathways associated with cell survival was assessed by immunofluorescent microscopy.

Results: Only dual endothelin receptor antagonism abolished astrocyte- and brain endothelial cell–mediated protection of glioma cells from temozolomide. In five independent survival studies, including temozolomide-resistant glioblastomas, 46 of 48 (96%) mice treated with macitentan plus temozolomide had no evidence of disease (P < 0.0001), whereas all mice in other groups died. In another analysis, macitentan plus temozolomide therapy was stopped in 16 mice after other groups had died. Only 3 of 16 mice eventually developed recurrent disease, 2 of which responded to additional cycles of macitentan plus temozolomide. Macitentan downregulated proteins associated with cell division and survival in glioma cells and associated endothelial cells, which enhanced their sensitivity to temozolomide.

Conclusions: Macitentan plus temozolomide are well tolerated, produce durable responses, and warrant clinical evaluation in glioblastoma patients. Clin Cancer Res; 21(20); 4630–41. ©2015 AACR.
Phase II Study of the AKT Inhibitor MK-2206 plus Erlotinib in Patients with Advanced Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Who Previously Progressed on Erlotinib
Authors: Lara Primo N. , Longmate Jeff , Mack Philip C. , Kelly Karen , Socinski Mark A. , Salgia Ravi , Gitlitz Barbara , Li Tianhong , Koczywas Mariana , Reckamp Karen L. , Gandara David R.
Published: June 2015

Purpose: Preclinical modeling in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) showed that stimulation with hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), the ligand for MET, could reverse the cytostatic and cytotoxic effects of the EGFR inhibitor erlotinib in erlotinib-sensitive cell lines. Inhibitors of AKT signaling mitigated this HGF-mediated resistance, partially restoring erlotinib activity. We conducted a phase II trial of erlotinib plus MK-2206, a highly selective inhibitor of AKT, in NSCLC patients.

Experimental Design: Eligible patients must have progressed following prior benefit from erlotinib, defined as response or stable disease > 12 weeks. Treatment consisted of erlotinib 150 mg orally every day + MK-2206 45 mg orally every alternate day on a 28-day cycle. Primary endpoints were RECIST response rate > 30% (stratum 1: EGFR mutant) and disease control rate (DCR) > 20% at 12 weeks (stratum 2: EGFR wild-type).

Results: Eighty patients were enrolled, 45 and 35 in stratum 1 and 2, respectively. Most common attributable adverse events (all grade 3) were rash, diarrhea, fatigue, and mucositis. Response and DCR were, respectively, 9% and 40% in stratum 1; 3% and 47% in stratum 2. Median progression-free survival was 4.4 months in stratum 1 and 4.6 months in stratum 2.

Conclusions: Combination MK-2206 and erlotinib met its primary endpoint in erlotinib-pretreated patients with EGFR wild-type NSCLC. Although activity was seen in EGFR-mutated NSCLC, this did not exceed a priori estimates. AKT pathway inhibition merits further clinical evaluation in EGFR wild-type NSCLC. Clin Cancer Res; 21(19); 4321–6. ©2015 AACR.
Cigarette Smoke and Estrogen Signaling in Human Airway Smooth Muscle
Authors: Sathish Venkatachalem , Freeman Michelle R. , Long Emma , Thompson Michael A. , Pabelick Christina M. , Prakash Y.S.
Published: June 2015

Aims: Cigarette smoke (CS) in active smokers and second-hand smoke exposure exacerbate respiratory disorders such as asthma and chronic bronchitis. While women are known to experience a more asthmatic response to CS than emphysema in men, there is limited information on the mechanisms of CS-induced airway dysfunction. We hypothesize that CS interferes with a normal (protective) bronchodilatory role of estrogens, thus worsening airway contractility. Methods: We tested effects of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) on 17β-estradiol (E2) signaling in enzymatically-dissociated bronchial airway smooth muscle (ASM) obtained from lung samples of non-smoking female patients undergoing thoracic surgery. Results: In fura-2 loaded ASM cells, CSE increased intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) responses to 10µM histamine. Acute exposure to physiological concentrations of E2 decreased [Ca2+]i responses. However, in 24h exposed CSE cells, although expression of estrogen receptors was increased, the effect of E2 on [Ca2+]i was blunted. Acute E2 exposure also decreased store-operated Ca2+ entry and inhibited stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) phosphorylation: effects blunted by CSE. Acute exposure to E2 increased cAMP, but less so in 24h CSE-exposed cells. 24h CSE exposure increased S-nitrosylation of ERα. Furthermore, 24h CSE-exposed bronchial rings showed increased bronchoconstrictor agonist responses that were not reduced as effectively by E2 compared to non-CSE controls. Conclusion: These data suggest that CS induces dysregulation of estrogen signaling in ASM, which could contribute to increased airway contractility in women exposed to CS.
Metoprolol Inhibits Cardiac Apoptosis and Fibrosis in a Canine Model of Chronic Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Li Wenpeng , Yan Sen , Zhao Jing , Ding Xue , Zhang Song , Wang Dingyu , Liu Lei , Peng Wenpeng , Li Hui , Wang Dongyang , Liu Zhaorui , Li Yue
Published: June 2015

Aims: Emerging evidence suggested that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) was independently associated with the development of heart failure. In this study, we explored the influence of chronic OSA on left ventricular structural remodeling in canines, and the potential therapeutical role of metoprolol. Methods: Chronic OSA model was established by stopping the ventilator and closing the airway for 4 h/day apnea-ventilation cycles every other day for 12 weeks while metoprolol (5 mg· kg-1· day-1) were administered continuously. Norepinephrine concentration was measured by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay. Transmission electron microscopy, Hematoxylin and eosin, TUNEL and Masson trichrome staining were employed to detect the morphology, apoptosis and fibrosis of cardiomyocytes. Protein expression of apoptosis and fibrosis-related factors including apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF), caspase 3, Bcl-2, Bax, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) were examined by Western blotting. Results: Norepinephrine concentration was markedly increased in chronic OSA dogs and reduced by metoprolol. Both the apoptotic ratio and collagen volume fraction were significantly increased in left ventricular myocytes of chronic OSA dogs, and was reversed by metoprolol. Moreover, chronic OSA-induced upregulation of AIF, cleaved caspase 3, Bax, α-SMA, and TGF-β1 as well as downregulation of Bcl-2 was markedly recovered by metoprolol, which was mediated by p38 MAPK. Conclusion: Metoprolol protects against chronic OSA-induced cardiac apoptosis and fibrosis in left ventricular myocytes of canines, which may provide new potential strategy for drug therapy of OSA.
Gastrointestinal Immune Response to the Shrimp Allergen Tropomyosin: Histological and Immunological Analysis in an Animal Model of Shrimp Tropomyosin Hypersensitivity
Authors: Lam Yin Fan , Tong Ka Kui , Kwan Kin Ming , Tsuneyama Koichi , Shu Shang-An , Leung Patrick S.C. , Chu Ka Hou
Published: June 2015

Background: Shellfish hypersensitivity is among the most common food allergies. A murine model of IgE-mediated shrimp allergy has been established in our laboratory. The aim of this study is to determine the intestinal histological changes and cytokine expression profile of this model sensitized with the major shellfish allergen tropomyosin. Methods: Female Balb/c mice orally sensitized and challenged with recombinant tropomyosin were sacrificed. Continuous sections of duodenum, jejunum and ileum were prepared using the Swiss roll technique for histological and immunological analysis. Duodenal epithelial cell apoptosis and migration were examined. mRNA expression of IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-13, IL-18 and IFN-γ in intestinal tissue was measured via RT-PCR. Results: In tropomyosin-sensitized and challenged mice, an increased number of eosinophils, mast cells and goblet cells was found 24 h after challenge. There were also increased mast cell and goblet cell numbers at 72 h after challenge, but the level of eosinophils decreased. Differences compared with control mice are most prominent at the duodenum compared to the distal regions. In addition, TUNEL assay indicates a significantly higher apoptosis rate in sensitized mice sacrificed 72 h after challenge, and mRNA expression showed a biased Th2/Th1 cytokine profile and a higher level of murine mast cell protease 1. Conclusions: This study documented a multitude of histological and immunological changes in the gut in a murine model of shrimp allergy. Even without repetitive intragastric challenge, shrimp tropomyosin induces an increase in the number of inflammatory cells to varying degrees within the small intestine. This model provides an important tool for testing new therapeutic interventions.
Accuracy of Fetal Echocardiography in the Differential Diagnosis between Truncus Arteriosus and Pulmonary Atresia with Ventricular Septal Defect
Authors: Gómez Olga , Soveral Iris , Bennasar Mar , Crispi Fatima , Masoller Narcis , Marimon Edda , Bartrons Joaquim , Gratacós Eduard , Martinez Josep M.
Published: June 2015

Objectives: To report on the accuracy of fetal echocardiography in the distinction between truncus arteriosus communis (CAT) and pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect (PA-VSD) and to describe the association with extracardiac and chromosomal anomalies. Methods: This was a retrospective study on 31 fetuses with a single arterial trunk overriding a VSD with a nonidentifiable right ventricle outflow tract with anterograde flow. Data on the type of cardiac defect, gestational age, characteristics of the arterial trunk valve, presence of additional vascular, chromosomal and extracardiac abnormalities and postnatal outcome were obtained. Misdiagnosed cases were reevaluated by four-dimensional spatiotemporal image correlation (4D-STIC) echocardiography. Results: The overall diagnostic accuracy was 81% and increased to 93.5% with 4D-STIC. Chromosomal and extracardiac anomalies were detected in 40 and 27%, respectively. In the PA-VSD group, patent ductus arteriosus and major aortopulmonary collateral arteries (MAPCAs) were present in 70 and 50% of the cases, respectively, coexisting in 1 of 5 cases. MAPCAs were significantly associated with a right aortic arch and with a 22q11 microdeletion in 50% of cases. Conclusions: A prenatal distinction between CAT and PA-VSD can currently be achieved in most cases. MAPCAs should be actively searched for when PA-VSD is suspected, as they are associated with a higher risk of 22q11 microdeletion and potentially complicate postnatal treatment.
Organoid Models and Applications in Biomedical Research
Authors: Xinaris Christodoulos , Brizi Valerio , Remuzzi Giuseppe
Published: June 2015

Recent technical advances in the stem cell field have enabled the in vitro generation of complex structures resembling whole organs termed organoids. Most of these approaches employ three-dimensional (3D) culture systems that allow stem cell-derived or tissue progenitor cells to self-organize into 3D structures. These systems evolved, methodologically and conceptually, from classical reaggregation experiments, showing that dissociated cells from embryonic organs can reaggregate and re-create the original organ architecture. Since organoids can be grown from human stem cells and from patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells, they create significant prospects for modelling development and diseases, for toxicology and drug discovery studies, and in the field of regenerative medicine. Here, we outline historical advances in the field and describe some of the major recent developments in 3D human organoid formation. Finally, we underline current limitations and highlight examples of how organoid technology can be applied in biomedical research.
Transcaval Puncture for Access to the Pulmonary Venous Atrium After the Extracardiac Total Cavopulmonary Connection Operation
Authors: Moore Jeremy P. , Hendrickson Benjamin , Brunengraber Daniel Z. , Shannon Kevin M.
Published: June 2015

Background—

Patients with surgically palliated total cavopulmonary connection are at risk for recurrent atrial arrhythmia requiring catheter ablation. Transcatheter procedures for those with extracardiac conduits (extracardiac-total cavopulmonary connection) are perhaps the most challenging because of exclusion of the venous circulation from the arrhythmia substrate. Puncture through the inferior vena cava to the pulmonary venous atrium may be an effective route for access in these patients.

Methods and Results—

The pediatric and adult congenital surgical databases were explored for patients with extracardiac-total cavopulmonary connection and postoperative computed tomography imaging to assess for the presence of clinically relevant (>3 mm) apposition between the inferior vena cava and pulmonary venous atrium (cavoatrial overlap). The degree of overlap between the structures was measured by 2 blinded reviewers. Patients were stratified by surgical repair in childhood versus adult congenital heart disease. Thirty-seven patients were identified, with cavoatrial overlap observed in 9 (36%) of pediatric and 1 (9%) of adult congenital heart disease–repaired patients. Time elapsed after surgery was associated with cavoatrial overlap in the pediatric cohort (
P
=0.034) and was identified in all pediatric patients with computed tomography imaging ≥8 years after surgery. Three patients underwent successful transcaval puncture during the study period without complication.

Conclusions—

Puncture through a region of overlap between the inferior vena cava and pulmonary venous atrium is feasible. Cavoatrial overlap is present in a substantial proportion of patients undergoing extracardiac-total cavopulmonary connection in childhood and is associated with a longer time elapsed since surgery.
A Short Inquiry on the Perceptions of “Good Governance” in Shi‘a Religious Philosophy
Authors: Nourani Seyyed Mohsen
Published: June 2015

In Shi‘a teachings, there is a principle of equitable governing and guidance through the implementation of the divine will of the Imam. While much religious tradition has rejected the idea that Iranian monarchs were the embodiment of the divine nature and that they were righteous rulers, there is little doubt that the Shi‘a ideas arose from imitating ancient Iranian religious traditions. This has been the basis of the popularity of Shi‘a doctrines within the Iranian society. Justice is one of the beliefs of Shi‘a religious and political thought that has been a significant addition to the five major pillars of Islam. It has also been one of the primary issues of ancient Iranian political thought that was imported into the political ideology of Islam in the Muslim era. The author discusses some points regarding this issue in Shi‘a religious philosophy.
Somaesthetics and Dance
Authors: Carter Curtis L.
Published: June 2015

Dance is proposed as the most representative of somaesthetic arts in Thinking Through the Body: Essays in Somaesthetics and other writings of Richard Shusterman. Shusterman offers a useful, but incomplete approach to somaesthetics of dance. In the examples provided, dance appears as subordinate to another art form (theater or photography) or as a means to achieving bodily excellence. Missing, for example, are accounts of the role of dance as an independent art form, how somaesthetics would address differences in varying approaches to dance, and attention to the viewer’s somaesthetic dance experience. Three strategies for developing new directions for dance somaesthetics are offered here: identify a fuller range of applications of somaesthetics to dance as an independent art form (e.g. Martha Graham); develop somaesthetics for a wider range of theatre dance (e.g. ballet, modern and experimental dance); and relate somaesthetics to more general features of dance (content, form, expression, style, kinesthetics) necessary for understanding the roles of the choreographer/dancer and the viewer.
Reconsidering Richard Shusterman’s Somaesthetics
Authors: Garrison James
Published: June 2015

In his work on somaesthetics, Richard Shusterman employs Confucianism’s take on ritualized self-cultivation to address blind spots in Euro-American accounts. However, Shusterman’s remarks on the later classical-era thinker Xún Zǐ (荀子) hint at a possible tension with the former’s pragmatism and promotion of somatic self-fashioning. The classical Confucian debate between Mencius (Mèng Zǐ; 孟子) and Xún Zǐ on human nature being either “good” or “bad” broaches issues of somaesthetics, namely as concerns self-cultivation being either internally spontaneous or externally imposed. Looking at this debate can thus help the project of somaesthetics by bringing old, though in this case novel, vocabulary to bear on an issue with which Shusterman wrestles – the “ontic” status of somaesthetic practice.
Transactional Experiential Inquiry: From Pragmatism to Somaesthetics
Authors: Shusterman Richard
Published: June 2015

In responding to five symposium articles that discuss my book Thinking through the Body and my theories of somaesthetics and pragmatism, this essay elaborates two central methodological orientations that guide my philosophical research. The first is transactional experiential inquiry in which inquiry can develop new directions, aims, methods, and standards through the dynamic experiences acquired in the course of the inquiry’s pursuit and in which its transactional experiences involve research that transcends familiar disciplinary limits and conventions. The second principle involves mitigating problematic dualisms by a strategy of inclusive disjunction. I deploy these principles in replying to the five commentaries. Besides clarifying issues in somaesthetics, my reply focuses on such topics as everyday aesthetics, eroticism, architecture, dance, Chinese philosophy, meliorism, and pragmatism.
The genus Sciara Meigen (Diptera, Sciaridae) in New Caledonia, with the description of two new species
Authors: VILKAMAA PEKKA , HIPPA HEIKKI , MOHRIG WERNER
Published: June 2015

The genus Sciara Meigen includes two species in New Caledonia, both newly described: Sciara insulana sp. n. and S. turgidula sp. n. The species are diagnosed and figured.
A new species of the shore-fly genus Notiphila Fallén, 1810 (Diptera: Ephydridae) from Indonesia
Authors: KRIVOSHEINA M.G. , OZEROV A.L.
Published: June 2015

A new shore-fly species, Notiphila oksanae sp.n. from Indonesia is described. The new species is similar to the Oriental species Notiphila thaica Krivosheina, 2010 in having many brown stripes on the thorax and in presurstyli broad in lateral view, but differs in 2 facial setae of subequal length, the absence of brown band on anepisternum and the presence of dark band on hind tibia. A key to the presently known Australasian/Oceanian species of the genus Notiphila Fallén, 1810 is given.
Potter wasps of the genus Eumenes Latreille, 1802 (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Eumeninae) from Vietnam, with description of a new species and key to species
Authors: NGUYEN LIEN THI PHUONG
Published: June 2015

Seven species of the genus Eumenes Latreille, 1802 are recorded from Vietnam. A new species, E. gibbosus Nguyen, sp. nov. is described and figured. Eumenes atrophicus (Fabricius, 1798), E. inconspicuus Smith, 1858, E. labiatus sinicus Giordani Soika, 1941, and E. rubronotatus Pérez, 1905 are newly recorded from Vietnam. A key to species is given.
On the Eocene age of Limodromus Motschulsky, 1850, with description of
L. hoffeinsorum sp. n. from Baltic Amber (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Platynini)
Authors: SCHMIDT JOACHIM
Published: June 2015

The first platynine ground beetle, Limodromus hoffeinsorum sp. n., is described from Baltic amber at species level. The fossil species is considered the sister taxon of the modern species group of L. assimilis (Paykull, 1790). However, it was adapted to warmer climate conditions. The habitat of the new species is assumed similar to that of the modern L. klausnitzeri Schmidt, 2005, which represents a more basal branch of Limodromus and which occurs in the mountains of northern Vietnam.
Description of a new species of Sinocaulus Fairmaire from China (Coleoptera: Dascillidae)
Authors: Jin Zhenyu , ŚLIPIŃSKI ADAM , WANG WENKAI
Published: June 2015

A new species of the genus Sinocaulus Fairmaire, 1878, S. truncatus sp. nov., is described from Guizhou, China. Based on the strongly protuberant eyes, the new species is similar to S. omiensis Jin, Ślipiński & Pang, 2013 from Sichuan, but differs from that species in the truncate phallobase of the aedeagus and ventral lobes slightly shorter than dorsal lobe. Distributional data and a key to all four species of Sinocaulus are provided.
Aircraft Observations of Dry Air, the ITCZ, Convective Cloud Systems, and Cold Pools in MJO during DYNAMO
Authors: Chen Shuyi S. , Kerns Brandon W. , Guy Nick , Jorgensen David P. , Delanoë Julien , Viltard Nicolas , Zappa Christopher J. , Judt Falko , Lee Chia-Ying , Savarin Ajda
Published: June 2015

One of the most challenging problems in predicting the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) is the initiation of large-scale convective activity associated with the MJO over the tropical Indian Ocean. The lack of observations is a major obstacle. The Dynamics of the MJO (DYNAMO) field campaign collected unprecedented observations from air-, land-, and ship-based platforms from October 2011 to February 2012. Here we provide an overview of the aircraft observations in DYNAMO, which captured an MJO initiation event from November to December 2011. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) WP-3D aircraft was stationed at Diego Garcia and the French Falcon 20 aircraft on Gan Island in the Maldives. Observations from the two aircraft provide a unique dataset of three-dimensional structure of convective cloud systems and their environment from the flight level, airborne Doppler radar, microphysics probes, ocean surface imaging, global positioning system (GPS) dropsonde, and airborne expendable bathythermograph (AXBT) data. The aircraft observations revealed interactions among dry air, the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ), convective cloud systems, and air–sea interaction induced by convective cold pools, which may play important roles in the multiscale processes of MJO initiation. This overview focuses on some key aspects of the aircraft observations that contribute directly to better understanding of the interactions among convective cloud systems, environmental moisture, and the upper ocean during the MJO initiation over the tropical Indian Ocean. Special emphasis is on the distinct characteristics of convective cloud systems, environmental moisture and winds, air–sea fluxes, and convective cold pools during the convectively suppressed, transition/onset, and active phases of the MJO.
Bread for the world: Toward an agrarian reading of the Psalter (or, reading the Christ “psalmologically”)
Authors: McCann J. Clinton
Published: June 2015

Building upon the work of Ellen Davis, especially her Scripture, Culture, and Agriculture: An Agrarian Reading of the Bible, this article analyzes the Psalter from an agrarian perspective. Davis concludes that the Old Testament was largely written, compiled, and edited by agrarians, with the exception of the royal traditions. While the Psalter clearly evidences a royal/messianic stamp, there is also reason to conclude that the final form of the Psalter criticizes the monarchy, ultimately looking to God as the true sovereign who will do what the earthly kings were supposed to do but failed to do—that is, feed their people. Particular attention is given to Psalms 72 and 85, along with Book V of the Psalter, which contains repeated affirmations that God will provide food for the world.
Amos ecology
Authors: Ellis Robert R.
Published: June 2015

The environmental crises of our world have propelled ecological theology to the forefront of biblical studies today. Ecohermeneutics is a rich, growing field of research that offers fertile ground for reading Scripture with a view to its ecological values. In concert with the trend, this article explores the ecotheology of the book of Amos. It finds that the environmental perspective of Amos revolves around three concerns: an ecology of goodness; an ecology of pain; and an ecology of goodness made new. The book assumes an ecology of goodness that is rooted in God’s creation of a cosmos that is trustworthy, generous, and interconnected. The book also reflects an ecology of pain that arises from the abuse of the land and its peasants by the wealthy elite of Israel. In response to their atrocities, the book predicts the coming of another ecology of pain: one brought by God, in which the resources of the earth will be removed from the land through the decimation of natural disasters and invading enemies. Finally, the book of Amos envisions that God’s discipline of the earth will eventually be replaced by an ecology of goodness made new, in which the people of God will one day be replanted in their land to enjoy political stability, peace, and astounding agricultural bounty.
Difficult texts
Authors: Lindley Richard
Published: June 2015

The biblical accounts of seeing (and hearing) God are mixed in kind, but the clear assumption of most traditions is that no one can, in fact, see God. There was consistency in this respect with the results of a recent survey of Winchester churchgoers’ perceptions of God, which also produced one or two surprises. Seeing (and hearing) God is a matter of interpretation, and has much in common with signs and analogies.
Why leaves curl with water content varied: Mechanics can illustrate biology
Authors: Liu Jian-Lin , Zuo Ping-Cheng , Sun Jing , Lan Di
Published: June 2015

The phenomenon of plant leaves curling in the dehydration or water absorption process is normally observed in our daily life. In this study, we show that a simple mechanics model can be used to uncover the mechanism of this deformation. In consideration of the nonuniformly distributed tissues, a leaf is abstracted as a composite beam including two layers. We then derive the expression of the neutral axis curvature due to the mismatch strain, which shows that it is just the different capabilities to conduct water for the two layers that result to this curling deformation. Our experiment on the deformation of a composite sheet in water sucking verifies this theoretical model. These investigations may cast new light on how to design humidity-mediated sensors or actuators and are beneficial to illustrate the curved morphologies of some plant structures in nature.
Intellectual Property in the Connected Age
Authors: Skiba Diane J.
Published: June 2015

Concerns about intellectual property for nursing are becoming increasingly acute as information becomes highly accessible in the digital age. Nurse faculty members need to check policies of the agencies that they work for to evaluate explicit written policies for their protection and full understanding of the agency’s rights.
Thoughts About Theories and Statistics
Authors: Fawcett Jacqueline
Published: June 2015

The purpose of this essay is to share my ideas about the connection between theories and statistics. The essay content reflects my concerns about some researchers’ and readers’ apparent lack of clarity about what constitutes appropriate statistical testing and conclusions about the empirical adequacy of theories. The reciprocal relation between theories and statistics is emphasized and the conclusion is that statistics without direction from theory is no more than a hobby.
Communication skills in psychiatry training
Authors: Ditton-Phare Philippa , Halpin Sean , Sandhu Harsimrat , Kelly Brian , Vamos Marina , Outram Sue , Bylund Carma L , Levin Tomer , Kissane David , Cohen Martin , Loughland Carmel
Published: June 2015

Objective:

Mental health clinicians can experience problems communicating distressing diagnostic information to patients and their families, especially about severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia. Evidence suggests that interpersonal communication skills can be effectively taught, as has been demonstrated in the specialty of oncology. However, very little literature exists with respect to interpersonal communication skills training for psychiatry. This paper provides an overview of the communication skills training literature.

Conclusions:

The report reveals significant gaps exist and highlights the need for advanced communication skills training for mental health clinicians, particularly about communicating a diagnosis and/or prognosis of schizophrenia. A new communication skills training framework for psychiatry is described, based on that used in oncology as a model. This model promotes applied skills and processes that are easily adapted for use in psychiatry, providing an effective platform for the development of similar training programs for psychiatric clinical practice.
Psychological treatments for trichotillomania: Update and future directions
Authors: Rehm Imogen , Moulding Richard , Nedeljkovic Maja
Published: June 2015

Objective:

This paper aims to provide an overview of evidence-based psychological treatments for trichotillomania.

Conclusions:

Advances in the understanding of the phenomenology of trichotillomania has led to the augmentation of behavioural treatments with dialectical behaviour therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy. Further studies of treatment component efficacy and cognitive behavioural models are required.
An empowerment health education program for children undergoing surgery for congenital heart diseases
Authors: Ni Zhihong , Chao Yannfen , Xue Xiaoling
Published: June 2015

Since the surgery for congenital heart disease (CHD) is considered highly risky, appropriate postoperative care is crucial. After the surgery, children are often discharged with unhealed wounds, incomplete recovery, and continuing pain. Health education programs based on empowerment education model can assist clients to develop skills in self-management. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an empowerment health education program for improving caregiving knowledge, caring behaviors, and self-efficacy of parents caring for children after corrective surgery for CHD. This prospective clinical trial enrolled pediatric patients undergoing surgical correction for CHD. Patients were divided into two groups: the control group ( n = 42), which received the standard education program, and the intervention group ( n = 44), which participated in the empowerment theory-based education program. We collected data on left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF); peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2); New York Heart Association classification of the patients; and the parents’ caregiving knowledge, caring behaviors, and self-efficacy before surgery and one month and three months after surgery. At one month and three months after surgery, the intervention group scored higher than the control group in caregiving knowledge, caring behavior, and self-efficacy. By the third month after surgery, the intervention group had significantly higher values of LVEF and SpO2 than the control group.
Protecting children in research
Authors: Randall Duncan , Anderson Anna , Taylor Julie
Published: June 2015

Children participating in research, like other children, may be being maltreated. There is also potential for exposure to abuse during research. Research training, practices and protocols to respond to disclosure and discovery of abuse to protect both researchers and children may not be sufficiently robust. Our aim was to compare and contrast research practices reported in the literature related to protecting children and to recommend safer ways to conduct research. The simultaneous increase in research with children, along with an increased willingness to listen to child victims of abuse, means that researchers must consider the protection of children in the research setting. Twenty-three papers were identified in a literature review. These studies reported a wide variation of ethical considerations, methods, methodology and came from different disciplines. From the 23 papers, two overarching themes were identified: social justice and research and safer research. To make research safer teams should consider training, safety protocols and support for child protection, which includes support to report safeguarding concerns to social care. Further work is required to ensure that training, protocols and support are effective in facilitating researchers to identify and make appropriate child abuse referrals. Ethics practices in abuse research need further debate.
Studying teacher preparation: The questions that drive research
Authors: Cochran-Smith Marilyn , Maria Villegas Ana
Published: June 2015

This article argues that research on teacher preparation over the last 100 years can be understood in terms of the major questions that researchers examined. The analysis is guided by the framework of “research as historically situated social practice,” which emphasizes that researchers’ interests, commitments, and social experiences guide the research questions they pursue and the theories and perspectives they adopt. Past research on initial teacher education is described in terms of the emergence of three broad questions: “the curriculum question,” “the effectiveness question,” and “the knowledge question.” Present research focuses on two broad animating questions: “the policy question” and “the learning question.” We recommend that future research address questions that link teacher learning with student learning and teacher candidates’ beliefs and practices as well as questions that examine the relationships between research practices and social, economic and institutional power.
Perceptions of phantom limb pain in lower limb amputees and its effect on quality of life: a qualitative study
Authors: Trevelyan Esmé G , Turner Warren A , Robinson Nicola
Published: June 2015

Background:

Phantom limb pain (PLP) is a prevalent complication post-amputation. Currently, qualitative literature exploring the experience of PLP in amputees is sparse, and little is known about whether the educational needs of amputees are being met.

Objectives:

To explore lower limb amputees’ descriptive lived experiences of PLP, to understand how PLP affects quality of life and to determine whether amputees feel they are provided with adequate information about PLP.

Methods:

A qualitative descriptive approach, situated under the constructivist paradigm was taken, consisting of cross-sectional semi-structured interviews. A purposive sample of 15 lower limb amputees, 1–3 months post-surgery with past or current experience of PLP were interviewed once about their experience of PLP. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using Framework Analysis. Interviews were conducted while participants were inpatients at an amputee rehabilitation unit in London.

Results:

Six key themes were identified during analysis, of which three were related to PLP and are reported on in this article (real and physical phantoms, living with a phantom and being informed). PLP had numerous painful qualities. The phantom felt real, with kinetic and kinaesthetic properties. PLP had multiple meanings to amputees, was considered a reminder of circumstances and could affect quality of life. Information provided about PLP was inadequate.

Conclusion:

PLP can be a severe and annoying experience acting as a reminder of amputees’ circumstances. Information provided about PLP is inadequate, with some amputees still perceiving PLP as mental and imaginary. Education about PLP and awareness and accessibility to non-pharmacological interventions needs to be improved.
The Impact of Political Context on the Measurement of Postmaterial Values
Authors: Tranter Bruce
Published: June 2015

This research highlights the influence of political context upon the measurement of postmaterial value orientations. Drawing upon a variety of international survey data, Inglehart claims that since World War II a shift has occurred in advanced industrialized nations from material toward postmaterial values. However, cross-sectional data from Australian Election Study surveys collected over more than two decades indicate that atypically for an advanced democracy, Australian value orientations tend toward the materialist pole. Australian Election Study values estimates are also at odds with those from other national social surveys that portray Australia as a far more postmaterialist nation. Regression analysis demonstrates that after controlling for election issues, attitudes toward political leaders, political party identification, and social background, predicted values estimates are substantially more postmaterial than the raw estimates. The findings have international implications as they suggest that measuring values during or soon after election campaigns may affect the measurement of postmaterial value orientations.
Personality Traits Characterized by Adjectives in a Famous Chinese Novel of the 18th Century
Authors: Zhu Junpeng , Chen Wanzhen , Fan Hongying , Zhang Bingren , Liao Kebin , Li Xiaolin , Xu You , Wang Wei
Published: June 2015

The personality-descriptive adjectives used in a famous Chinese novel of the 18th century, A Dream of Red Mansions, which is thought to broadly reflect Chinese culture, might help depict personality structure. Four hundred ninety-three personality-descriptive adjectives from the first 80 chapters of the novel were administered to 732 Chinese university students. After factor analyses, the one- to seven-factor solutions were extracted, and the five-factor one was relatively clearer. The five factors of personality titled Wicked, Intelligent, Amiable, Conscientious, and Frank, were intercorrelated. Men scored higher on Wicked and Conscientious but lower on Amiable compared with women. As a preliminary trial, our study demonstrates that personality-descriptive adjectives in a famous Chinese novel characterize the personality structure.
Evolutionary Aesthetics and Print Advertising
Authors: Luczaj Kamil
Published: June 2015

The article analyzes the extent to which predictions based on the theory of evolutionary aesthetics are utilized by the advertising industry. The purpose of a comprehensive content analysis of print advertising is to determine whether the items indicated by evolutionists such as animals, flowers, certain types of landscapes, beautiful humans, and some colors are part of real advertising strategies. This article has shown that many evolutionary hypotheses (although not all of them) are supported by empirical data. Along with these hypotheses, some inferences from Bourdieu’s cultural capital theory were tested. It turned out that advertising uses both biological schemata and cultural patterns to make an image more likable.
Effects of Positive Mood on Generative and Evaluative Thinking in Creative Problem Solving
Authors: Politis Jennifer , Houtz John C.
Published: June 2015

The goal of this study was to examine the role of positive mood on generative and evaluative thinking in creative problem solving. Participants included 89 middle school students who watched either a positive or neutral mood video program. After students watched the video, they completed the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) scale to determine their current mood. Participants were then divided into three groups and given a divergent thinking task to complete. Group A was asked to generate potential solutions to a problem (generative thinking). Group B was given one solution to the problem that had been offered by participants’ peers in a previous pilot study and then asked to generate possible advantages to this particular solution (evaluative thinking). Group C was given the potential solution but asked to generate potential disadvantages (also evaluative thinking). Students in the positive mood condition were significantly more fluent than those who watched the neutral video. Students in the neutral mood condition generated more disadvantages than advantages, but this difference was significant only at p < .10. Implications and limitations of these results were discussed.
Purchase Intention of Foreign Products
Authors: Haque Ahasanul , Anwar Naila , Yasmin Farzana , Sarwar Abdullah , Ibrahim Zariyah , Momen Abdul
Published: June 2015

The current research aims to investigate various factors that influence consumers’ intention of buying foreign products. The data were collected by means of self-structured questionnaires from a total of 260 Bangladeshi consumers residing in the two major cities of the country, Dhaka and Chittagong. At the initial stage, statistical analyses, particularly descriptive analysis as well as exploratory factor analysis, were conducted using SPSS, after which structural equation modeling was run by using AMOS. The findings have established that brand image and quality of foreign products carry significant positive influence on purchase intention of foreign products. However, religiosity leaves a significant negative effect on the purchase intention of foreign products. Furthermore, findings have also revealed that the image of the country of origin carries a significant positive effect on brand image but ethnocentrism carries a significant negative effect on perceptions about the quality of foreign products in their purchase intention. The major contribution of the current study is that it focuses on Bangladesh, as there is a vacuum in contemporary literature on this topic in the context of Bangladeshi consumers. The findings derived from the study could facilitate marketers in the creation of effective marketing strategies and at the same time are also valuable for academicians as well as consumers at large.
Fatigue Risk Management
Authors: Randolph Susan A.
Published: June 2015

The occupational and environmental health nurse can be instrumental in developing a fatigue risk management system.
Effect of alloying elements on expulsion in electric resistance spot welding of advanced high strength steels
Authors: Kong J.-P. , Kang C.-Y.
Published: June 2015

This study examined the effects of alloying elements, which are normally used to modify the composition of advanced high strength steels, on the expulsion phenomenon during resistance spot welding as well as the effects of alloying elements on the expulsion limit current (ELC). An equation for the ELC prediction was derived from the correlation between the ELC and alloying element: ELC (kA) = 9.85–0.74Si–0.67Al–0.28C–0.20Mn–0.18Cr. The coefficient of determination between the calculated and measured values was sufficiently high ( R2 = 0.94). The extent of the effects of the alloying elements on the ELC was in the order of Si, Al, C, Mn and Cr. From the correlations among the ELC and resistivity R, the coefficient of thermal expansion α and yield strength (YS1200°C), the ELC was calculated to be ELC (kA) = 9.3 − 0.057 R − 0.035α+0.22YS1200°C, and the coefficient of determination was sufficiently high ( R2 = 0.96).
Platelets at the interface of thrombosis, inflammation, and cancer
Authors: Franco Aime T. , Corken Adam , Ware Jerry
Published: June 2015

Although once primarily recognized for its roles in hemostasis and thrombosis, the platelet has been increasingly recognized as a multipurpose cell. Indeed, circulating platelets have the ability to influence a wide range of seemingly unrelated pathophysiologic events. Here, we highlight some of the notable observations that link platelets to inflammation, reinforcing the platelet’s origin from a lower vertebrate cell type with both hemostatic and immunologic roles. In addition, we consider the relevance of platelets in cancer biology by focusing on the hallmarks of cancer and the ways platelets can influence multistep development of tumors. Beyond its traditional role in hemostasis and thrombosis, the platelet’s involvement in the interplay between hemostasis, thrombosis, inflammation, and cancer is likely complex, yet extremely important in each disease process. The existence of animal models of platelet dysfunction and currently used antiplatelet therapies provide a framework for understanding mechanistic insights into a wide range of pathophysiologic events. Thus, the basic scientist studying platelet function can think beyond the traditional hemostasis and thrombosis paradigms, while the practicing hematologist must appreciate platelet relevance in a wide range of disease processes.