bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of healing efficiency of carbon-based nanocomposites under modified environment
Authors: Yoon Sung-Min , Kim Yun-Hae
Published: July 2018

This study investigates an analysis of the healing behavior of carbon-based nanocomposites by using the finite element (FE) method and provides the quantitative healing values based on the efficiency with respect to the volume, C[Formula: see text]V[Formula: see text]/V[Formula: see text]. An approximation of the geometrical relationship on the profile was considered, and the results compared with the model were used to estimate the healing efficiency based on the initial open profiles. In this model, it contains the interface elements between damaged crack faces. We adjust their sizes and stiffness of elements to compare the profiles with a geometrical equation. We propose that the results of their efficiencies can be compared with the strength of the healing elements that depend on the size of healed volume by the approximation.
Improvement of Gray ROM-Based Encoder for Flash ADCs
Authors: Soleimani Mohammad , Toofan Siroos
Published: July 2018

In this paper, gray ROM-based encoder is proposed for the implementation of flash ADCs encoder block based on converting the conventional 1-of-[Formula: see text] thermometer codes to 2-of-[Formula: see text] codes ([Formula: see text]). The proposed gray ROM-based encoder is composed of three stages. In the first stage, the thermometer codes are converted to 2-of-[Formula: see text] codes by the use of two-input AND and four-input merged AND–OR gates. In the second stage, 2-of-[Formula: see text] codes are turned to [Formula: see text] gray codes and a binary code by a quasi-gray ROM encoder and a binary ROM encoder, respectively. Finally, in the third stage, [Formula: see text] MSB bits and LSB bit are determined by a quasi-gray-to-binary converter and a CMOS inverter, respectively. The advantages of the proposed encoder over the conventional encoder are higher speed of second stage, low power, low area and low latency with the same bubble and meta-stability errors removing capability. To demonstrate the mentioned specifications, two 5-bit flash ADCs with the conventional and proposed encoders in their encoder blocks are analyzed and simulated at 2-GS/s and 3.2-GS/s sampling rates in 0.18-[Formula: see text]m CMOS process. Simulation results show that the ENOBs of flash ADCs with the conventional and proposed encoders are equal. In this case, the proposed encoder outputs are determined to be approximately 30[Formula: see text]ps faster than the conventional encoder at 2 GS/s. The power dissipations of the conventional and proposed encoders were 19.50[Formula: see text]mW and 13.90[Formula: see text]mW at 3.2-GS/s sampling rate from a 1.8-V supply and also the latencies of the encoders were 4 ADC clocks and 3 ADC clocks, respectively. In this case, the number of D-FFs and logic gates of the proposed encoder is decreased approximately by 37% when compared to the conventional encoder.
THE COORDINATION OF COMPLEX PRODUCT SYSTEMS PROJECTS: A CASE STUDY OF AN R&D MULTI-PARTY ALLIANCE
Authors: FRANÇA JOSÉ ADALBERTO
Published: July 2018

In this paper, we address the evolution of coordination between multiple and diverse partners in a complex R&D innovation project. Because common understanding is crucial to help coordination in complex and uncertain contexts, we performed an in-depth case study of a large European project aiming to investigate the interaction between common understanding and coordination mechanisms during the life cycle of a complex product systems (CoPS) multi-party project. We found that coordination mechanisms are combined according to different stages of the project and create common understanding by managing tasks and roles as the project unfolds. Moreover, to cope with high interdependent tasks and many diverse partners, it seems crucial to implement an iterative process where tasks and roles evolve and mature progressively, and problems are identified earlier, leading to a validated and consistent result.
Activity Recognition with Evolving Data Streams
Authors: Abdallah Zahraa S. , Gaber Mohamed Medhat , Srinivasan Bala , Krishnaswamy Shonali
Published: July 2018

Activity recognition aims to provide accurate and opportune information on people’s activities by leveraging sensory data available in today’s sensory rich environments. Nowadays, activity recognition has become an emerging field in the areas of pervasive and ubiquitous computing. A typical activity recognition technique processes data streams that evolve from sensing platforms such as mobile sensors, on body sensors, and/or ambient sensors. This article surveys the two overlapped areas of research of activity recognition and data stream mining. The perspective of this article is to review the adaptation capabilities of activity recognition techniques in streaming environment. Categories of techniques are identified based on different features in both data streams and activity recognition. The pros and cons of the algorithms in each category are analysed, and the possible directions of future research are indicated.
Delivery of a matrix metalloproteinase-responsive hydrogel releasing TIMP-3 after myocardial infarction: effects on left ventricular remodeling
Authors: Purcell Brendan P. , Barlow Shayne C. , Perreault Paige E. , Freeburg Lisa , Doviak Heather , Jacobs Julia , Hoenes Abigail , Zellars Kia N. , Khakoo Aarif Y. , Lee TaeWeon , Burdick Jason A. , Spinale Francis G.
Published: July 2018

Although improvements in timing and approach for early reperfusion with acute coronary syndromes have occurred, myocardial injury culminating in a myocardial infarction (MI) remains a common event. Although a multifactorial process, an imbalance between the induction of proteolytic pathways, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and endogenous tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMPs), has been shown to contribute to this process. In the present study, a full-length TIMP-3 recombinant protein (rTIMP-3) was encapsulated in a specifically formulated hyaluronic acid (HA)-based hydrogel that contained MMP-cleavable peptide cross-links, which influenced the rate of rTIMP-3 release from the HA gel. The effects of localized delivery of this MMP-sensitive HA gel (HAMMPS) alone and containing rTIMP-3 (HAMMPS/rTIMP-3) were examined in terms of the natural history of post-MI remodeling. Pigs were randomized to one of the following three different groups: MI and saline injection (MI/saline group, 100-μl injection at nine injection sites, n = 7), MI and HAMMPS injection (MI/HAMMPS group; 100-μl injection at nine injection sites, n = 7), and MI and HAMMPS/rTIMP-3 injection (MI/HAMMPS/rTIMP-3 group; 20-μg/100-μl injection at nine injection sites, n = 7). Left ventricular (LV) echocardiography was serially performed up to 28 days post-MI. LV dilation, as measured by end-diastolic volume, and the degree of MI wall thinning were reduced by ~50% in the HAMMPS/rTIMP-3 group ( P < 0.05). Furthermore, indexes of heart failure progression post-MI, such as LV filling pressures and left atrial size, were also attenuated to the greatest degree in the HAMMPS/rTIMP-3 group. At 28 days post-MI, HAMMPS/rTIMP-3 caused a relative reduction in the transcriptional profile for myofibroblasts as well as profibrotic pathways, which was confirmed by subsequent histochemistry. In conclusion, these findings suggest that localized delivery of a MMP-sensitive biomaterial that releases a recombinant TIMP holds promise as a means to interrupt adverse post-MI remodeling.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The present study targeted a myocardial matrix proteolytic system, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), through the use of a recombinant tissue inhibitor of MMPs incorporated into a MMP-sensitive hydrogel, which was regionally injected using a large animal model of myocardial infarction. Left ventricular geometry and function and indexes of myocardial remodeling were improved with this approach and support the advancement of localized therapeutic strategies that specifically target the myocardial matrix.
Teaching Pharmacy Undergraduate Students Inhaler Device Technique and Exploring Factors Affecting Maintenance of Technique
Authors: Toumas-Shehata Mariam , Henricks Mark , Ovchinikova Ludmila , Smith Lorraine , Bosnic-Anticevich Sinthia
Published: July 2018

Aim. To determine the effect of inhaler device technique education on the maintenance of the inhaler device technique of undergraduate pharmacy students over time and to determine the factors, if any, related to inhaler device technique maintenance in the academic setting. Methods. This study took the form of a prospective, unpaired samples repeated measures design. Participants had their inhaler technique assessed at baseline. Participants were then shown how to use an inhaler as a group. Participants then worked in pairs and took turns teaching and assessing each other on the correct inhaler technique using the 9-step checklist. Immediately following the delivery of the intervention, participants had their inhaler technique reassessed. All participants were then trained to mastery through individualised training. Twelve months following the collection of baseline data, all participants had their inhaler technique assessed and completed two questionnaires. Results. Following the delivery of the intervention, there was a significant increase in the proportion of participants with the correct inhaler technique when compared to baseline (11% to 61%, resp.). There was a significant reduction in the proportion of participants demonstrating the correct technique 12 months following training (28%). The strongest determinant of inhaler technique maintenance is experience with showing patients how to use their inhalers. Conclusion. Repeated training is essential to ensure that the technique is mastered and maintained, and consolidation of skills through exposure to train others may be most effective.
Psychosocial Problems among School Going Adolescents in Nepal
Authors: Timalsina Mina , Kafle Mana , Timalsina Rekha
Published: July 2018

Background. Psychosocial problems refer to the difficulties faced by adolescents in different areas of personal and social functioning. Adolescents are vulnerable to psychosocial problems because of physical and physiological changes that occur in their body during this developmental stage. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify psychosocial problems among school going adolescents in Nepal.Methods. A cross-sectional descriptive study was adopted. Nonprobability convenient sampling technique was used for selecting 287 adolescents. Ethical approval was taken from Nepal Health Research Council and self-administered structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data collection was done in 2016. Descriptive statistics and chi-square test were used to analyze the data.Results. The findings of this study show that 12.9 percent of adolescents had psychosocial problems. While categorizing psychosocial problems, the adolescents had internalizing problems (44.6%), attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) (25.8%), and externalizing problems (4.2%). There is association of age group and parent’s marital status with psychosocial problems.Conclusion. It is concluded that psychosocial problems (i.e., internalizing problems, ADHD, and externalizing problems) were prevalent among Nepalese school adolescents. Adolescents’ age group and parent’s marital status are associated with psychosocial problems. This study recommended that school authority, health professionals, and other professional related to child health and mental health should play an important role for the prevention and earlier recognition of and intervention for psychosocial problems.
Ipsilateral Acetabular Fracture with Displaced Femoral Head and Femoral Shaft Fracture: A Complex Floating Hip Injury
Authors: Rajasekaran Raja Bhaskara , Jayaramaraju Dheenadhayalan , Palanisami Dhanasekara Raja , Perumal Ramesh , Shanmuganathan Rajasekaran
Published: July 2018

Floating hip injuries involving the acetabulum, femoral head, and the femoral shaft are a very rare presentation. A complex floating hip injury comprising of an ipsilateral acetabular fracture associated with a displaced femoral head fracture and a femoral shaft fracture following a high-velocity road traffic accident presented to us where all the fractures were addressed with internal fixation during the primary surgery. Postoperatively, the patient suffered a dislocation of the femoral head which eventually went on to avascular necrosis at 5 months from the initial presentation. Then, the patient underwent a total hip replacement with an acetabular reconstruction following which he went on to have a good functional outcome. Our experience in dealing with such a complex case shows that it is difficult to set a protocol for such injuries and they need to be addressed on a case-to-case basis depending on the complexity of the injury.
Nondrainage after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy for Acute Calculous Cholecystitis Does Not Increase the Postoperative Morbidity
Authors: Qiu Jianguo , Li Ming
Published: July 2018

Background. It is now established that prophylactic drainage is not needed after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) for chronic calculous cholecystitis. However, the benefit of drains versus their potential harm for acute calculous cholecystitis (ACC) following laparoscopic LC has been questioned. Therefore, we conducted a comparative study to assess the need for drainage.Methods. Between January 2014 and October 2016, 212 patients with ACC undergoing LC undergo either drainage (n= 106) or no drainage (n= 106). The primary end points were the number of patients with postoperative drain-related complications, early and late Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, and hospital stay. Secondary end points included estimated blood loss, postoperative recovery, analgesia requirement, and cosmetic satisfaction result.Results. There was no bile duct injury and mortality in both groups. The overall complication rate was 12.5% with no significant difference between those with or without drainage (P=0.16). Normal activity resumption was significantly faster and the postoperative hospital stay was slightly shorter in the nondrainage group (P=0.03 andP= 0.04, respectively). The early VAS score in the drainage group was significantly higher (p<0.05). There were no significant differences between the two groups in postoperative hematology test, late VAS score, and patient satisfaction of cosmetic outcome.Conclusion. Routine drainage for patients with ACC after LC may not be justified with similar drain-related complications compared with nondrainage group.
Rate‐Adaptive Multiple Access for Uplink Grant‐Free Transmission
Authors: Ye Neng , Wang Aihua , Li Xiangming , Liu Wenjia , Hou Xiaolin , Yu Hanxiao
Published: July 2018

Grant‐free transmission, which simplifies the signaling procedure via uplink instant transmission, has been recognized as a promising multiple access protocol to address the massive connectivity and low latency requirements for future machine type communications. The major drawback of grant‐free transmission is that the contaminations among uncoordinated transmissions can reduce the data throughput and deteriorate the outage performance. In this paper, we propose a rate‐adaptive multiple access (RAMA) scheme to tackle the collision problems caused by the grant‐free transmission. Different from the conventional grant‐free (conv‐GF) scheme which transmits a single signal layer, RAMA transmits the signals with a multilayered structure, where different layers exhibit unequal protection property. At the receiver, the intra‐ and interuser successive interference cancellation (SIC) receiving algorithm is employed to detect multiple data streams. In RAMA, the users can achieve rate adaptation without the prior knowledge of the channel conditions, since the layers with high protection property can be successfully recovered when the interference is severe, while other layers can take advantage of the channel when the interference is less significant. Besides, RAMA also facilitates the SIC receiving since the multiple layers in the transmission signals can provide more opportunities for interference cancellation. To evaluate the system performance, we analyze the exact expressions of the throughout and the outage probability of both conv‐GF and RAMA. Finally, theoretical analysis and simulation results validate that the proposed RAMA scheme can simultaneously achieve higher average throughput and lower outage performance than conv‐GF. Meanwhile, RAMA shows its robustness with large user activation probability, where the collisions among users are severe.
Exploiting Uplink NOMA to Improve Sum Secrecy Throughput in IoT Networks
Authors: Xiang Zhongwu , Yang Weiwei , Cai Yueming , Cheng Yunpeng , Wu Heng , Wang Meng
Published: July 2018

This paper exploits nonorthogonal multiple access (NOMA) to enhance the uplink secure transmission in Internet of Things (IoT) networks. Considering the different intercept ability of eavesdroppers (Eve), secrecy performances of both strong and weak Eve wiretap scenarios have been investigated. In strong Eve wiretap scenario (SWS), Eve is assumed to be powerful enough to decode message without interference and, in weak Eve wiretap scenario (WWS), Eve is assumed to have significant demodulation capability constraint. The new closed‐form expressions of joint connection outage probability (JCOP), joint secrecy outage probability (JSOP), and sum secrecy throughput (SST) are derived in these two scenarios to indicate the impact of parameters, i.e., transmit power, codeword rate, and the placement of devices, on security performance. In order to demonstrate the superiority of NOMA, we also investigate the secrecy performance of orthogonal multiple access (OMA) system as a benchmark. Analysis results show that the performance in WWS is always better than that in SWS and, in low signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) or high codeword rate region, the performances of these two scenarios are close. In addition, we present the condition that NOMA outperforms OMA in terms of SST. Moreover, the placements of devices are significant to the SST performance of NOMA system. The suboptimal device placement scheme has been designed to maximize SST. Analysis results demonstrate that when Eve is far away from legal users, the suboptimal results tend to optimal.
Future Trends and the Economic Burden of Dementia in Manitoba: Comparison with the Rest of Canada and the World
Authors: Adlimoghaddam Aida , Roy Banibrata , Albensi Benedict C.
Published: July 2018

Dementia is a growing public health concern in Canada. This epidemic is linked to huge human and economic costs. The number of Manitobans (65+) with dementia in 2045 (47,021), representing 2.58% of the Manitoban population, will be 2.3 times that of the year 2015 (20,235). The number of cases of dementia in Manitoba grew by 20.7% from 2015 to 2025, 68.16% from 2015 to 2035 and at an alarming rate of 125% from 2015 to 2045. Importantly, the total economic burden of dementia in Manitoba is close to one billion USD and is expected to grow more than 28 billion USD during the year 2038. The focus of this review is to compare dementia rates and the financial burden of dementia in Manitoba with the rest of Canada and the world from 2012 to 2048.
Study on the Association between the Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 4 Expression and High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Infection in Cervical Cancer and Precancerous Lesions
Authors: Guo Lichen , Zhao Aimin , Zhang Rui , Xie Yan , Xu Xiaofeng
Published: July 2018

Aims: To discuss the correlation between the expression of fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR4) and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in cervical cancer and precancerous lesions. Methods: One hundred and sixty four cases of cervical lesions tissue samples were collected (60 cases of cervical cancer, 38 cases of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia [CIN] stage I, 32 cases of CIN II, 34 cases of CIN III). HPV infection status and expression strength of FGFR4 of all samples were detected and compared among different groups. The correlation between the HPV infection and the expression strength of FGFR4 was analyzed. Results: There were differences of the HPV infection status and type distribution and FGFR4 expression strength among the 4 groups; The infection rate of high-risk HPV in cervical cancer group was higher than that of the 3 CIN groups. The FGFR4 positive expression rate of the cervical cancer group was also obviously higher than that of the 3 CIN groups; HPV infection was correlated with the FGFR4 expression strength and the FGFR4 expression was stronger when infected with high-risk type HPV. Conclusion: The expression of FGFR4 in the cervical cancer and CIN tissues was correlated with the HPV infection and the FGFR4 may be involved in the development of the HPV-infected cervical lesions.
Slow Potential at the Entrance of the Slow Conduction Zone in the Reentry Circuit of a Verapamil‐Sensitive Atrial Tachycardia Originating From the Atrioventricular Annulus
Authors: Yamabe Hiroshige , Kanazawa Hisanori , Ito Miwa , Kaneko Shozo , Kanemaru Yusuke , Kiyama Takuya , Tsujita Kenichi
Published: July 2018

Background

Slow conduction zone in a verapamil‐sensitive reentrant atrial tachycardia originating from atrioventricular annulus is composed of calcium channel–dependent tissue. We examined whether there was a slow potential (
SP
) at the entrance of the slow conduction zone.

Methods and Results

We first identified the pacing site from where manifest entrainment and orthodromic capture of the earliest atrial activation site were demonstrated in 40 atrioventricular annulus patients with atrioventricular annulus. Radiofrequency energy was then delivered 2 cm proximal to the earliest atrial activation site in the direction of entrainment pacing site and gradually advanced toward the earliest atrial activation site until atrial tachycardia termination to localize the entrance of the slow conduction zone. Electrogram characteristics were analyzed at successful and unsuccessful ablation sites. During sinus rhythm,
SP
was observed at all 40 successful sites, but was observed at only 12 unsuccessful sites (
P
<0.0001). During sinus rhythm, there was no significant difference in electrogram amplitude nor width of atrial electrogram between successful and unsuccessful sites (0.407±0.281 versus 0.487±0.447 mV [
P
=0.1989] and 37.0±9.2 versus 38.9±8.0 ms [
P
=0.1773]); however,
SP
amplitude and width at successful sites were significantly greater than those at unsuccessful sites (0.110±0.049 versus 0.025±0.046 mV [
P
<0.0001] and 38.8±13.4 versus 8.1±13.2 ms [
P
<0.0001]). During atrial tachycardia,
SP
amplitude was significantly attenuated (0.088±0.042 versus 0.110±0.049 mV,
P
<0.001) and
SP
width was significantly prolonged (47.8±14.1 versus 38.8±13.4 ms,
P
<0.0001) at successful sites.

Conclusions

SP
was observed during sinus rhythm at the entrance of the slow conduction zone; however,
SP
amplitude was attenuated and
SP
width was prolonged during atrial tachycardia, suggesting that
SP
reflects the characteristics of calcium channel–dependent tissue involved in atrioventricular annulus reentry circuit.
Articulated Definiteness without Articles
Authors: Jenks Peter
Published: July 2018

While it lacks a definite article, Mandarin makes a principled distinction between unique and anaphoric definites: unique definites are realized with a bare noun, and anaphoric definites are realized with a demonstrative, except in subject position. The following proposals account for these facts: (a) bare nouns achieve definite interpretations via a last-resort type-shifting operator ι, which has a unique definite meaning; (b) demonstratives can occur as anaphoric definites because they have a semantic argument beyond their nominal restriction that can be filled by an index; and (c) bare nominal subjects are topics. A principle called Index! requires that indexical expressions be used whenever possible. Mandarin is contrasted with Cantonese, which, like English, is shown to have access to an ambiguous definite article.
Autosegmental Aims in Surface-Optimizing Phonology
Authors: Shih Stephanie S , Inkelas Sharon
Published: July 2018

We develop a novel optimization approach to tone. Its grammatical component consists of the similarity- and proximity-based correspondence constraint framework of Agreement by Correspondence theory (ABC). Its representational component, Q Theory, decomposes segments ( Q) into temporally ordered, quantized subsegments ( q), which comprise unitary sets of distinctive features, including tone. ABC+Q unites phonological alternations and static lexical patterns, as we illustrate with a programmatic survey of core tonal phenomena: assimilation, dissimilation, lexical tone melodies, and consonant-tone interaction. ABC+Q surmounts long-standing problems for autosegmental-era, multitiered representational approaches to tone, and unites tonal and segmental phonology under the modern umbrella of correspondence theory.
Crespo, M.B., Martínez-Azorín, M. & Mavrodiev, E.V. (2015) Can a rainbow consist of a single colour? A new comprehensive generic arrangement of the ‘Iris sensu latissimo’ clade (Iridaceae), congruent with morphology and molecular data. Phytotaxa 232: 1–78.
Authors: CRESPO MANUEL B. , MARTÍNEZ-AZORÍN MARIO , MAVRODIEV EVGENY V.
Published: July 2018

N/A
A new cryptic rock-dwelling Hemidactylus Oken, 1817 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from northern Karnataka, India
Authors: SRINIVASULU CHELMALA , SRINIVASULU ADITYA , KUMAR GANDLA CHETHAN
Published: July 2018

A new species of rupicolous gecko of the genus Hemidactylus is described from the Bellary District of Karnataka, India. The large-sized (SVL to at least 104.7 mm) gecko is characterized by the following suite of characters: dorsum with 16 longitudinal rows of irregularly arranged, subtrihedral, moderately to feebly keeled, striated tubercles at midbody; tail with transverse series of two enlarged tubercles on either side of the median furrow on the first and second tail segments each; 17–18 femoral pores on each side separated by 5 poreless scales. In conjunction, the molecular data based on concatenated analysis of nuclear (RAG-1 and PDC) and mitochondrial (Cytb) genes support the distinctiveness of the species and its affinities with large-bodied tuberculate Hemidactylus spp. from India and Sri Lanka, placing the new species basal to the entire H. prashadi group.
A Numerical Study on the Aerodynamics of Freely Falling Planar Ice Crystals
Authors: Nettesheim Joseph J. , Wang Pao K.
Published: July 2018

Fluid flow fields and fall patterns of falling planar ice crystals are studied by numerically solving the unsteady, incompressible Navier–Stokes equations using a commercially available computational fluid dynamics package. The ice crystal movement and orientation are explicitly simulated based on hydrodynamic forces and torques representing the 6 degrees of freedom. This study extends the current framework by investigating four planar-type ice crystals: crystals with sector-like branches, crystals with broad branches, stellar crystals, and ordinary dendritic crystals. The crystals range from 0.2 to 5 mm in maximum dimension, corresponding to Reynolds number ranges from 0.2 to 384. The results indicate that steady flow fields are generated for flows with Reynolds numbers less than 100; larger plates generate unsteady flow fields and exhibit horizontal translation, rotation, and oscillation. Empirical formulas for the drag coefficient, 900-hPa terminal velocity, and ventilation effect are given. Fall trajectory, pressure distribution, wake structure, vapor field, and vorticity field are examined.
Effects of Enhanced Front Walker Cell on the Eastward Propagation of the MJO
Authors: Chen Guosen , Wang Bin
Published: July 2018

Well-organized eastward propagation of the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) is found to be accompanied by the leading suppressed convection (LSC) over the Maritime Continent (MC) and the western Pacific (WP) when the MJO convection is in the Indian Ocean (IO). However, it remains unclear how the LSC influences the MJO and what causes the LSC. The present study shows that the LSC is a prevailing precursor for eastward propagation of the MJO across the MC. The LSC enhances the coupling of IO convection and the Walker cell to its east [front Walker cell (FWC)] by increasing the zonal heating gradient. The enhanced FWC strengthens the low-level easterly, which increases boundary layer (BL) convergence and promotes congestus convection to the east of the deep convection; the enhanced congestus convection preconditions the lower to middle atmosphere, which further promotes the transition from congestus to deep convection and leads to eastward propagation of the MJO. The MJO ceases eastward propagation once the FWC decouples from it. Further analysis reveals that LSC has two major origins: one comes from the eastward propagation of the preceding IO dry phase associated with the MJO, and the other develops concurrently with the IO convection. In the latter case, the development of the LSC is brought about by a two-way interaction between the MJO’s tropical heating and the associated tropical–extratropical teleconnection: the preceding IO suppressed convection induces a tropical–extratropical teleconnection, which evolves and forms an anomalous western North Pacific cyclone that generates upper-level convergence and induces significant LSC.
Comparison of Moisture Transport between Siberia and Northeast Asia on Annual and Interannual Time Scales
Authors: Piao Jinling , Chen Wen , Zhang Qiong , Hu Peng
Published: July 2018

The moisture supplies over Siberia and Northeast Asia are investigated by comparing their similarities and differences, enlightened by the seesaw pattern in their summer precipitation. Based on the rotated empirical orthogonal functions in the 3-month standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI_03), Siberia and Northeast Asia are defined as the regions within 55°–70°N, 80°–115°E and 40°–55°N, 90°–115°E, respectively. Our results show that over both regions, evaporation contributes the most to the precipitation amount at the annual time scale, and moisture convergence contributes the most on the interannual time scale. For moisture convergence, both the stationary and transient terms are subject to impacts of the midlatitude westerlies. For the annual cycle, the net moisture supply over both Siberia and Northeast Asia is closely associated with both stationary and transient moisture transport. However, on the interannual time scale, the net moisture convergence is closely related to the stationary term only. The examination of the boundary moisture transport shows that in addition to the zonal component, the meridional stationary moisture transport plays a key role in the net moisture convergence. The transient moisture transport mainly depends on moisture transport through the western and southern boundaries, with a comparable magnitude to that of the stationary one, further confirming the importance of the stationary and transient terms on the moisture supply for the annual cycle. In addition, the circulations responsible for moisture transport anomalies indicate that the stationary moisture circulation is the key factor for the moisture supply anomalies over both Siberia and Northeast Asia, with limited impacts from the transient moisture circulation.
The Influence of Meridional Gradients in Insolation and Longwave Optical Depth on the Climate of a Gray Radiation GCM
Authors: Lutsko Nicholas J. , Popp Max
Published: July 2018

The relative contributions of the meridional gradients in insolation and in longwave optical depth (caused by gradients in water vapor) to the equator-to-pole temperature difference, and to Earth’s climate in general, have not been quantified before. As a first step to understanding these contributions, this study investigates simulations with an idealized general circulation model in which the gradients are eliminated individually or jointly, while keeping the global means fixed. The insolation gradient has a larger influence on the model’s climate than the gradient in optical depth, but both make sizeable contributions and the changes are largest when the gradients are reduced simultaneously. Removing either gradient increases global-mean surface temperature due to an increase in the tropospheric lapse rate, while the meridional surface temperature gradients are reduced. “Global warming” experiments with these configurations suggest similar climate sensitivities; however, the warming patterns and feedbacks are quite different. Changes in the meridional energy fluxes lead to polar amplification of the response in all but the setup in which both gradients are removed. The lapse-rate feedback acts to polar amplify the responses in the Earth-like setup, but is uniformly negative in the other setups. Simple models are used to interpret the results, including a prognostic model that can accurately predict regional surface temperatures, given the meridional distributions of insolation and longwave optical depths.
Racism Within the Axis: Sexual Intercourse and Marriage Plans Between Italians and Germans, 1940–3
Authors: König Malte
Published: July 2018

In an investigation of the internal functioning of the German-Italian coalition, an important question is to what degree the Axis Powers were divided by race ideology when it was directed not at a third party, but at the Italians and Germans themselves: How did the Germans communicate to their coalition partner that a ‘mixing of the races’ was not acceptable to them? How did the Italians react? What diplomatic complications arose and how were they resolved? These questions remained hypothetical until 1941, since women and men from the two regimes had little opportunity to meet. The question, however, gains relevance after the Economic Agreement of 26 February 1941 was signed. The agreement stipulated that in exchange for the delivery of raw materials, the Italians would provide 204,000 workers to be deployed in the German armaments industry. The Italian workforce in the German Reich grew rapidly within just a few months, turning what had been a mere hypothetical concern into a real issue: What role did the National Socialist race ideology play when Germans and Italians met and took a liking to one another?
Delayed Phonological Encoding in Stuttering: Evidence from Eye Tracking
Authors: Pelczarski Kristin M , Tendera Anna , Dye Matthew , Loucks Torrey M
Published: July 2018

Stuttering is a multifactorial disorder that is characterized by disruptions in the forward flow of speech believed to be caused by differences in the motor and linguistic systems. Several psycholinguistic theories of stuttering suggest that delayed or disrupted phonological encoding contributes to stuttered speech. However, phonological encoding remains difficult to measure without controlling for the involvement of the speech-motor system. Eye-tracking is proposed to be a reliable approach for measuring phonological encoding duration while controlling for the influence of speech production. Eighteen adults who stutter and 18 adults who do not stutter read nonwords under silent and overt conditions. Eye-tracking was used to measure dwell time, number of fixations, and response time. Adults who stutter demonstrated significantly more fixations and longer dwell times during overt reading than adults who do not stutter. In the silent condition, the adults who stutter produced more fixations on the nonwords than adults who do not stutter, but dwell-time differences were not found. Overt production may have resulted in additional requirements at the phonological and phonetic levels of encoding for adults who stutter. Direct measurement of eye-gaze fixation and dwell time suggests that adults who stutter require additional processing that could potentially delay or interfere with phonological-to-motor encoding.
The “Serious Business” of Musical Play in the New Zealand Early Childhood Curriculum
Authors: Trinick Robyn , Pohio Lesley
Published: July 2018

Children have a natural curiosity about sound. This is particularly evident in the context of musical play. The potential of play for music learning may be overshadowed by a teacher-led and performance-focused approach to music education rather than an organic, self-initiated approach. By bringing together the child’s natural curiosity about sound, a rich music environment, and effective teacher guidance, the stage is set for building a strong foundation of musical understandings during a child’s first five years, a critical period of the child’s musical development. This article draws attention to and provides examples of ways that musical play can be fostered and enacted in the New Zealand early childhood context. The unique, holistic nature of the New Zealand early childhood curriculum, Te Whāriki, does not address music explicitly. Rather, aspects of music pedagogies are embedded throughout the document, within a complex weaving together of principles, strands, and goals.
The role of the subchondral layer in osteonecrosis of the femoral head: analysis based on HR-QCT in comparison to MRI findings
Authors: Kolb Alexander R , Patsch Janina M , Vogl Wolf-Dieter , Benca Emir , Stelzeneder David , Windhager Reinhard , Hofstaetter Jochen G
Published: July 2018

Background

Non-traumatic avascular osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a severe disease causing destruction of the hip joint, often necessitating total hip arthroplasty (THA) even in young patients. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is commonly used for diagnosis of ONFH, but provides limited insight into the subchondral bone microstructure.

Purpose

To analyze routine MRI findings in comparison to high-resolution quantitative computed tomography (HR-QCT) with a special focus on the subchondral layer and to estimate the importance of differences determining the indication for THA.

Material and Methods

Twelve patients with ONFH were included before THA. Preoperative MRI and HR-QCT of the retrieved femoral heads were aligned using a registration algorithm. Pathological findings and trabecular bone parameters in matched areas were analyzed by two readers. McNemar, marginal homogeneity test, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient were used for comparison.

Results

Subchondral delamination was found in nine cases on HR-QCT, but missed or underestimated in all but one case on MRI ( P = 0.016). Chondral discontinuity was found in all cases on HR-QCT and in two cases on MRI ( P = 0.016). Areas of complete bone resorption on HR-QCT were linked to high signal intensity on 3D gradient-echo MRI sequences with water-selective excitation, while there was no correlation between trabecular bone parameters and MRI signal intensities in other areas ( P = 0.304).

Conclusion

Subchondral delamination, subchondral resorption, and chondral discontinuity are found frequently in advanced stages of ONFH. These lesions tend to be underestimated on conventional MRI. Our results support the importance of CT imaging in the evaluation of ONFH.
The Power of Storytelling: The Experiences of Incarcerated Women Sharing Their Stories
Authors: Bove Andrew , Tryon Rebecca
Published: July 2018

Women are the fastest growing prison population in the United States. Women who are incarcerated are characterized by significant mental health needs and intense societal stigma. Despite such vulnerabilities, little is known about their experiences or the pathways that lead them toward recovery and rehabilitation. This qualitative research explores the lived experiences of incarcerated women sharing their stories with high school students and their teachers as part of a community outreach project entitled “Stories of Change.” Six women were interviewed about what it was like to participate in the project. The data were coded and analyzed using phenomenological techniques, and the results were interpreted through a social constructionist framework. Five themes were revealed through an analysis of the interviews: (a) making a contribution, (b) connecting with others, (c) difficulty of telling their story, (d) identifying personal growth, and (e) moving forward. Storytelling is a powerful experience with lasting effects on the teller. This research explores the phenomenon of storytelling within a context of incarceration and stigma. These findings point toward the importance of providing programming to women within the criminal justice system that allows for meaningful interaction with normative individuals and opportunities for storytelling.
Kinematics of Rugby Tackling: A Pilot Study With 3-dimensional Motion Analysis
Authors: Kawasaki Takayuki , Tanabe Yasumasa , Tanaka Hiroshi , Murakami Kenji , Maki Nobukazu , Ozaki Hiroki , Hirayama Daisaku , Kunda Masahiro , Nobuhara Katsuya , Okuwaki Toru , Kaneko Kazuo
Published: July 2018

Background:

Although improper tackling technique in rugby can affect the outcome of the tackle and lead to head, neck, and shoulder injuries, the effects of the height of the tackle or the side of the leading leg at the time of impact have not been investigated.

Hypothesis/Purpose:

The purpose was to characterize the trunk orientation at impact during various tackles. It was hypothesized that 3-dimensional motion analysis would be able to capture the critical kinematic differences in the 4 types of tackles studied.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 66 tackles on a tackle bag were recorded among 13 elite rugby players. Four types of tackles were evaluated: the normal shoulder tackle, in which the tackler’s dominant shoulder made impact while the leading foot was on the same side as that shoulder; the low tackle, in which the tackler targeted the lower portion of the tackle bag; the opposite-leg tackle, in which the tackler’s leading leg was on the opposite side as the shoulder making impact; and the low and opposite-leg tackle, which was a combination of the previous 2 types of tackles. The orientation of the trunk at impact was calculated, and 2-way repeated-measures analyses of variance were used to compare the characteristics of these tackles.

Results:

Trunk inclination at impact was lower in the low tackle than in the normal tackle ( P < .01), regardless of the side of the leading leg. Trunk bending to the side of the impacted shoulder was lower in the opposite-leg tackle ( P < .01), and these findings were more significant in the normal-height tackles ( P < .01). Trunk rotation to the side of the impacted shoulder was lower in the opposite-leg tackles ( P < .01) and more significant in the lower-height tackles ( P = .03).

Conclusion:

The 3-dimensional motion capture system was effective in investigating the kinematics of rugby tackling. The kinematics in the low and opposite-leg tackles were significantly different from those in the normal shoulder tackle, which may affect tackle performance and the possible risk of contact injury.

Clinical Relevance:

When a rugby coach provides tackling instructions to players, it is advantageous to have information about the kinematics of different types of tackles.
Hemodialysis during cardiopulmonary resuscitation in patients with severe metabolic acidosis
Authors: Sahutoglu Tuncay , Sahutoglu Elif
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims:

Severe metabolic acidosis during cardiopulmonary resuscitation is an important and yet unresolved issue. The potential use of hemodialysis for severe metabolic acidosis during cardiopulmonary resuscitation was investigated.

Methods:

Acute hemodialyses between January 2012 and April 2017 were reviewed for patients with concomitant hemodialysis and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. In addition, MEDLINE was searched for similar reports. Data were extracted from hospital records.

Results:

Two patients (36M, 70F) were found to study, without similar reports in MEDLINE. Cardiac arrests (in-hospital) occurred due to severe metabolic acidosis in both patients (due to ethylene glycol and metformin intoxications, respectively). Return of spontaneous circulation could not be obtained within the first 28 and 30 min of cardiopulmonary resuscitation only, whereas both patients had return of spontaneous circulation following at least 45 min of concomitant hemodialysis and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. One patient (70F) was discharged with good neurological outcome, but the other died.

Conclusion:

The addition of high-efficiency hemodialysis during cardiopulmonary resuscitation may contribute to the return of spontaneous circulation in patients with severe metabolic acidosis due to intoxication.
Evaluating the Accuracy of SORNA: Testing for Classification Errors and Racial Bias
Authors: Ticknor Bobbie , Warner Jessica J.
Published: July 2018

Since its enactment in 2006, several researchers have explored whether the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA) classification system under the Adam Walsh Act improves outcomes such as increasing public safety and lowering recidivism of sexual offenders. This study adds to the growing body of literature by exploring how accurate this offense-based classification system is in terms of recidivism and if there is any racial bias in tier designation. Specifically, results from contingency analyses suggest that several sex offenders are overclassified, meaning that they were given a classification status that included more supervision and oversight although they did not commit another offense. Furthermore, African Americans were two-and-a-half times more likely to be overclassified than Caucasians which suggests racial bias may exist in this government-sponsored classification system. Implications for communities and the continued use of the SORNA are presented.
Quality of Life and Its Predictors Among Nursing Students in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aboshaiqah Ahmad E. , Cruz Jonas Preposi
Published: July 2018

Purpose: This study investigated the quality of life (QOL) and its predictors among nursing students in a university in Saudi Arabia. Design: A descriptive, cross-sectional design. Method: A convenience sample of 175 baccalaureate nursing students from a university in Saudi Arabia was surveyed in this study. Using the WHOQOL-BREF and a sociodemographic sheet, the QOL and its predictors among Saudi nursing students were investigated. Findings: The respondents reported a mean score of 4.09 ( SD = 0.71) and 4.02 ( SD = 0.87) for their overall perceptions of QOL and health, respectively. The psychological and physical health of these students had the highest and poorest QOL perception, respectively. Gender, academic year level, community type, and monthly family income exerted a multivariate effect on the four domains of QOL. Conclusion: The study underscores the need to ensure the highest level of health and well-being among nursing students while they are undergoing training for their professional roles as nurses. The findings should be utilized by policymakers in nursing institutions in Saudi Arabia in creating policies centered on the holistic development of nursing students in the country.
Feedforward model-inverse position control of three-stage servo-valve using zero magnitude error tracking control
Authors: Lee Kyeong Ha , Baek Seung Guk , Choi Hyouk Ryeol , Moon Hyungpil , Ji Sang-Hoon , Koo Ja Choon
Published: July 2018

Three-stage servo-valves are popularly used in hydraulic systems that require large flow rate and high pressure. For a proper control of flow direction and flow rate fed into a hydraulic actuator, securing a proper position control bandwidth is a critical task for the servo-valve. In this paper, a set of popular control methods are systematically studied and a control method is selected. It is proven that the feedforward model-inverse control is the most effective method in terms of the control bandwidth. In the present work, the feedforward closed-loop architecture is adopted and the closed-loop system is estimated in a linear discrete-time transfer function by recursive least squares method. On recognizing a nonminimum phase zero problem, this work implements the zero magnitude error tracking control, an approximate model-inverse technique, in order to overcome the problem. As a result, the effectiveness of the proposed feedforward model-inverse position control strategy is verified.